Hello Blues Fans!
Last week Jen and I were in Phoenix for treatment and for the Junk in the Trunk show. Treatment kicked my butt, but that’s to be expected, but Jen and I decided that while we both LOVE the Farmhouse look on HGTV, we seriously aren’t anywhere as committed to the décor as much as the people who lined up in 100-degree weather hoping to get in first. I had bought us VIP tickets back in January but was a tad disappointed that it didn’t feel VIP. That’s one thing I really push for at the Blues and Brews – VIP feeling VIP!!! And we are almost sold out of VIP!
In today’s newsletter, I want to feature Big Daddy D and the Dynamites as well as The Austin Young Band. Our first two acts are great groups and I think the more you know, the more you’ll appreciate what they have to offer at the festival!
Big Daddy D and the Dynamites will be our opening act and they just opened for Buddy Guy at the Colorado River Blues Festival. I asked Darryl a few questions and here are their answers.
Flagstaff Blues – What song is the most fun to perform and why?
Big Daddy D – I Thought I Heard…up-tempo swing tune. This is such a fun tune to play live. Up-tempo, lively and a palate for shear guitar shred
Flagstaff Blues – What’s your favorite festival to play and why?
Big Daddy D – Glendale Blues and Jazz was always a fave. Captive audience, that ‘got’ the music and dance their little hearts out. Looking forward to same in Flagstaff.
Flagstaff Blues – When you aren’t playing or making music, what do you do to relax?
Big Daddy D – Hanging with friends and checking out other bands. So many great bands out there to see.
It’s been 3 years since we first heard of Austin Young. The producer of the Blues from the Top Festival called and asked if we could just fit him in for 20 minutes. Now I admit, I was a little leery, but I decided to give them a shot and the band wowed everyone! Now, at the ripe old age of 22, Austin Young is the future of the Blues and the future looks mighty bright!
Flagstaff Blues – What song is the most fun to perform and why?
Austin Young – One of my favorite songs to perform would be my original song “Not So Simple”. It is the most fun to perform because it is the most personal, and in a way it tells listeners some of the struggles I endured growing up. Even though there is pain in that song, there is beauty in that pain and I really enjoy being able to express that onstage while performing this piece.
Flagstaff Blues – What is the best part of touring?
Austin Young – For me, the best part of touring is the relationships that we develop and the friendships that are formed. A lot of time while on the road, we have the privilege of staying at the homes of people connected with different festivals and different blues societies. Every time without fail we start as strangers and become good friends by the end of our stay. Also, just having the opportunity to bond on the road with my band and see new places is really neat, and something I do not take for granted.
Flagstaff Blues – What does your mom cook that you can’t get enough of?
Austin Young – My mom’s cooking ALWAYS hits the spot, but I have really been digging this sausage dish she has been making with rice and peppers!
It’s going to be an amazing year at the 6th Annual Flagstaff Blues and Brews Festival. We are adding new experiences and the bands are amazing. We hope you are as excited to attend as we are to produce the festival!
