Macon ponders Bo at local music venues and parks

The friends of Macon’s Arthur “Bo” Ponder hosted a three-day music celebration in his honor on Aug. 29, Aug. 31, and Sept. 2.
This three-day music celebration consisted of different events for the Macon community to enjoy.
At 7 p.m. on Aug. 29, there was a Meet and Greet session with Bo Ponder at JD’s Drama Theater.
Guests were invited to meet Ponder and socialize with him as well as with other Ponder friends and fans.
On Aug. 31 beginning at 7 p.m., two bands called Big Mike and Just Friends prepared live entertainment at Grant’s Lounge.
While the bands were performing, a fish and grits dinner was provided for the guests.
On Sep. 2, there was live music at Gateway Park’s “Rhythm & Jazz on the Docks” in honor of Ponder.
Arthur “Bo” Ponder is a black R&B singer who was very popular during the 1970’s and 1980’s.
One of his most famous songs is: “Dr. Strangelove.”
He recorded this single in the early 1970’s.
Ponder was previously a part of an R&B group, Soul Survivors.
He later became a part of another band named the Pinetoppers.
Ponder traveled to many different states to perform with his bands.
Ponder spent a great amount of time in Macon, Ga.
Years ago, Ponder spent many hours rehearsing in the building that is currently known as the Robert E. Lee Building, on Mulberry Street.
This was previously the home to Phil Walden Artists & Promotions and the WIBB studio.
Ponder went on tour throughout the United States at a time when racial segregation was an issue in America.  Consequently, this was not the easiest time for a group of African American musicians to tour the country.
However, Ponder’s band chose to not let this stop them from performing the music they loved.
His most recent performance was a tribute to James Brown in the Douglass Theatre.
He also preformed at the 2012 Cherry Blossom Festival.
Through the years, Ponder’s eyesight has become a struggle.
His eyesight has been slowly deteriorating and he is now legally blind.
Although he is not as healthy as he once was, Ponder will not let that stop him from performing the music that touches the souls of all R&B fans.
Many Macon locals came out to support Bo Ponder during the three-day music celebration.