MODESTO - Ralph Woodson’s Purple Haze is not your typical tribute band. 

He has studied his idol to the point of being able to play the guitar behind his back, and with his teeth. Woodson is a Hendrix authority, and it’s obvious when you see him perform.

The purple Haze Tribute to Jimi Hendrix concert that includes a tribute to Steve Ray Vaughn by the Cold Shot tribute band is Saturday, Nov, 17., at 8 p.m. at the Modesto State Thertre, 1307 J, St. Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets are $22. For more information go to www.thestate.org

The youngest of nine, Woodson grew up in Richmond and was initially struck by the sound of the “Band of Gypsys” record. Ralph has toured with Hedzoli Sounds (of which Hugh Masekela was a member), as well as The Mighty Diamonds, Lady Bianca, Faye Carol, and a Bill Kreutzmann (Grateful Dead)/Sy Klopps (Herbie Herbert) collaboration called the Trichromes. With the Trichromes and later with the Sy Klopps Blues Band, Woodsonh played on big stages opening for Tower of Power, James Brown, ZZ Top, and Lynyrd Skynyrd, among others. He’s appeared at the College of Marin and on KFOG-FM with author/Hendrix expert Steve Roby, demonstrating the sound and techniques of Jimi Hendrix.

Woodson  formed the Ralph Woodson Experience in 2001 (which became Purple Haze in 2010), focusing on the Hendrix material that he grew up with and always loved. Purple Haze has gained a steady following in the Bay Area and knock people out wherever they go. His showmanship and command of the Hendrix material is second to none. See it for yourself!