Waldo Burton Boys Home
From ages 7 to 15, I was under the care of the State of Louisiana at Waldo Burton Boys Home in New Orleans, LA. It is my life's Higher Purpose to assist children who have faced similar circumstances. I dedicate a substantial amount of time to charitable endeavors, supporting various organizations. Although the list is extensive, here are a few highlights. Following Hurricane Katrina in August 2005, I relocated to Dallas, TX. In my earlier years, I collaborated with Governor Edwin W. Edwards. Currently, I am a proud parent of four children and a grandchild. My eldest daughter, Victoria Stokes, is set to graduate from LSU Medical with an RN BSN in December 2017.
I often get asked why War of Rock Shows or Sports PLUS covers such a wide array of music genres. I attribute this diversity to my upbringing.
Growing up in Waldo Burton Memorial Boys Home in New Orleans, LA, shaped my musical preferences. The home was a melting pot of ethnicities and cultures, with residents and counselors sharing a love for various genres. The seniors, whom I looked up to, introduced me to rock 'n' roll, with influences ranging from Black Flag to KISS. The counselors, each with their unique tastes, exposed me to Rock/Jazz, Punk Rock, and even Vinnie Vincent Invasion.
My early exposure to country music came from listening to Freddie Fender in my mother's car, who was a backup singer for him in the '60s. Additionally, my mother worked at The 500 Club on Bourbon St., where Sunday mornings brought Jazz sessions with notable musicians like Dr. John.
Over time, I embraced the sounds of Motley Crue, Zebra, and Slaughter. These diverse musical experiences fueled my passion for creating events like Rockin' The Red Carpet and WAR of ROCK, encompassing various genres. Each genre has left a mark on me, influencing my work with artists like Randy Jackson, Mark Slaughter, and Vince Neil.
From country and jazz to rock and hip-hop, my journey through different genres is a testament to the rich cultural tapestry of the Boys Home. It's this eclectic musical background that inspires me to continue producing shows that celebrate the diversity of music.
The story doesn't end here; it's just the beginning. Collaborations with my rock heroes, such as Zebra, Motley Crue, and SLAUGHTER, have been fulfilling experiences. I've also had the privilege of working with legendary figures like Johnny Rotten, Robert Kool Bell, Eddie Money, and Warrant.
As I reflect on my musical journey, I'm grateful for the support from countless individuals. Whether working on TV shows, producing tracks, or organizing events, the influence of diverse musical experiences has been a constant source of inspiration.
Thank you to everyone who has been part of this musical journey.
T Stokes
Tom's favorite TOP 20 tunes:
1. Any and All from Muddy Waters / Buddy Guy
2. Celebration: Kool and the Gang
3. Kickstart My Heart: Mötley Crüe
4. Who's behind the door: Zebra
6. Sweet Home Chicago: Buddy Guy
9. Aint that a kick in the head: Dean Martin
11. Whiskey Bent and Hell Bound: Hank Williams Jr.
13. Crossfire: Stevie Ray Vaughan
15. Two Tickets to Paradise: Eddie Money
16. She's My Cherry Pie: Warrant
Tom Stokes with my eyes closed :)
Historical Note:
The Waldo Burton Memorial Boys' Home was endowed and built in the 1920s by cypress lumber businessman and philanthropist, William L. Burton (1847-1927), who wished to establish an enduring memorial to his only child, William Waldo Burton, who was born in 1875 and lived to adulthood. The institution, in operation as a residential care facility into the 21st century and post-Katrina, is housed in a large two-story brick building with three arches at the entrance. The predecessor organization of the Waldo Burton Memorial Boys' Home, caring for white male orphans, had its origin around 1824. Name variations include Society for the Relief of Destitute Orphan Boys, Orphan Boys' Asylum, Asylum for the Relief of Destitute Orphan Boys, Male Orphan Asylum, Waldo Burton Home, Waldo Burton Boys' Home, Waldo Burton Memorial Home.