Take Alternative, Hip-Hop, R&B, Soul, Funk, Rock, Jazz, and Classical and mix it all together.  These are the many dynamics of The Fuzz Band.  They have performed with national acts such as Alicia Keys, Jill Scott, and Outkast. Hailing from the halls of Hampton University, these eight talented individuals form an innovative and energetic force. In addition to their calendar dates, you can catch them weekly at Granby Theatre's "Fuzzy Wednesdays."  It has become a night full of music, poetry, comedy, and other artistic expressions with performers from all over the courtry.

The Fuzz Band's Nik Madry took a break from his busy schedule to talk to us about The Fuzz Band.

Q: How and When did the Fuzz Band form?  Where did the unique name come from?

A: The band formed in 1997 as the house band for an event called Fuzzy Wednesday. It is currently the longest running open-mic night in Hampton Roads, and was created by Paul Saunders and Duane Smith as an opportunity and outlet for artists to express themselves creatively. Initially instrumentally-based, the band was made up of members hand-selected by Smith from amongst his music major peers at Hampton University. Vocals were added to the mix in 1999.

The band's name was derived from Fuzzy Wednesday. It signifies a blend of several genres of music which make our style unclear, undefined, or "Fuzzy."

Q: Did the members of the band grow up in the Hampton Roads area or relocate here?

A: We all claim VA now because this is the home of the band as a whole, and where we grew up as a unit. However, we have roots planted throughout the country and beyond which somewhat explains the diversity of styles we enjoy playing. Members are from MD, CT,  NY, Greece, the Virgin Islands and VA.

Q: Who influnces your music and what gets you inspired to create?

A: We are influenced by great music: EWF, Queen, Stevie Wonder, Beethoven, Prince, Michael Jackson, Miles Davis, Hip Hop... and the list goes on...

I'm inspired by life's ups and downs. I find it hard to write about things that I haven't experienced directly or at least indirectly.

Q: Do you know of any local bands that we should keep an eye out for?  What bands do you enjoy
sharing a bill with?

A: Seed is...Jon Bibbs...Revery...there are too many talented musicians out there to name them all...ditto on the bill; although we haven't had the opportunity to work with Revery...yet!

Q: How would you describe your sound and music?

A: It's relatable without being watered down. If you experience life; which we all do (hopefully), you will be able to relate with most aspects of our style, expression, and lyrical content. The music is fresh, innovative, and it moves you on the most raw and instinctive levels.

Q: What are your favorite venues to play at? How would you like to see the available venues to change when booking shows?

A: I love concert halls! The bigger the better! I would love to see a greater respect and appreciation for the opening act-headliner-and after party acts! Sound is always a concern and an area for improvement. Sadly, you're only as good as your sound engineer, because they control what people hear. Lights are great but I'll sacrifice lighting for sound and promotion any day!

Q: How would you improve the media's relations with local bands and their relation to the Hampton Road's public?

A: I would love to see the all aspects of media pay more attention to what their readers/listeners want instead of force-feeding us some "sub par" example of what music has become today. I would also love to see more program directors deviate from the norm and give local talent a greater opportunity for radio exposure.

It's funny, but to me, "American Idol" is one of music's greatest blessings and curses at the same time. If you truly look at what America wants, it's not the most fashionable or most beautiful contestant. They actually weigh talent more heavily than physical criteria. These featured artists, win or lose, are dominating the charts! They are talented people who without the benefit of this outlet, would have gone unnoticed. It's a sad day for music, but I smell a change in the air...enter... The Fuzz Band!

Q: Who primarily writes the songs?

A: Musically, the instrumentalists create the songs either at practice or at home where they will bring in an idea for the band to expound upon.  Typically, the process is really spontaneous. Based on which vocalist the song seems to best reflect, that vocalist will write the lyrics to that particular song. It's all very collaborative. You can't have one without the other.

Q: How do you market your music to the public? What seems to work best for you for letting people know about your shows?

A: We use every outlet available. WOM has always been the most efficient and economic. We also send email blasts, flyers, MySpace, local papers, the website, online calendars, blogs, and radio ads.

Q: Do you have any CD's / merchandise available for fans to purchase? Where can they be purchased?

A: We currently have two CD's available on itunes and on CDBaby.com: "Without Boundaries" and "Collision."  We have just finished production on our third studio album, which will be available soon.

Q: When not playing music, what are your hobbies?

A: Daydreaming about music and where it will take us...Writing...Reading...Shopping...Eating!

For more the Fuzz Band:

http://www.thefuzzband.com
http://www.myspace.com/thefuzzbandva

You will be prompted to register or log in when posting.

Comment

Please note that by clicking on "Post Comment" you acknowledge that you have read the Terms of Service. Be polite. Inappropriate posts may be removed by the moderator.