Big Sam's Funky Nation

▼

The 2012 Line-up

Playing

Custom Schedule (Create One)

1707 Jazz Fest fans added this band.

+ Add Band

Big Sam’s Funky Nation is a driving force of modern urban funk. Ryan White, of the Oregonian, says the band is “tight enough (and hot enough) to turn coal into a diamond!” BSFN is led by trombone powerhouse, Big Sam Williams, formerly the trombonist for the Dirty Dozen Brass Band, who the San Francisco Chronicle calls “the top man on the slide trombone in the birthplace of jazz.” Big Sam refuses to let the audience sit still. Between the band’s solos, Big Sam’s signature dance moves and his distinctive trombone riffs, the energy level is high voltage when this band takes the stage! The Funky Nation is a stellar group of world-class musicians who meet the challenges of their funky band leader. The band is comprised of Andrew Baham on Trumpet/Vocals, Andrew Block on Guitar, Chocolate MILK on Drums, and Eric Vogel on Bass in addition to Big Sam on Trombone/Vocals. BSFN’s signature sound masterfully combines a rock sensibility with improv-style associated with jazz and the horn-heavy front section that’s the hallmark of big band funk. Big Sam began playing with the Dirty Dozen at the tender age of 19 before striking out on his own and creating BSFN. More recently, Big Sam powered-up the horn section on the critically acclaimed, Grammy nominated, “River in Reverse” and is prominently featured in "Hot as a Pistol, Keen as a Blade" the concert tour DVD. While touring with Elvis Costello and Allen Toussaint, Big Sam earned consistent reviews as a musical force and star soloist. Big Sam’s distinctive trombone rifts are notorious and sought after by musicians across the music spectrum. Big Sam has shared the stage with a diverse array of musicians, ranging from Dave Matthews, Karl Denson’s Tiny Universe, Ozomatli, and Widespread Panic. In January 2011 Big Sam’s Funky Nation set sail with Jam Cruise and Sam was awarded the “Golden Mic” for his numerous and prolific sit-ins. Big Sam also played with U2 and Green Day at the emotional and energetic re-opening of the Superdome which was broadcast live on Monday Night Football. Off the stage, Big Sam can be seen in the original HBO series Treme, in which he has a recurring role as himself. Additionally, Big Sam Williams was awarded the prestigious Louisiana Division of the Arts Artist Fellowship in Folklife for 2009-2010. Big Sam’s Funky Nation is a festival favorite across North America and their contagious tunes and memorable live performances have attracted fans far and wide, ranging from France, to the United Kingdom, to Greece, to Brazil, to Canada. BSFN is a favorite on the festival circuit and has sealed its mark on the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, Gathering of the Vibes, Antibes Jazz Festival, Telluride Blues & Brews, Austin City Limits, Bonnaroo Arts & Music Festival, Wakarusa, Voodoo Music Experience, Jazz Fest Berlin, Bear Creek Music & Arts Festival, and many more.

Video

Comments

You must login to comment.

Use Facebook

Tweets