At age 31, Jackie Greene has accomplished what many artists strive decades for. He has recorded seven albums of original work, an EP, DVD, and a recently released book of lyrics. Greene has been involved in many high-profile side projects. Included in his endeavors are performing with Levon Helm at Levon’s famous “Ramble” and featured performer at Warren Haynes annual Christmas Jam. He is currently planning a summer tour with a new ensemble, Trigger Hippy, featuring Steve Gorman of The Black Crowes and Joan Osborne. There will also be a series of shows with Jackie Greene, Bob Weir, and Chris Robinson as an acoustic trio. He is playing Smith’s Olde Bar on Friday, Oct. 5th
What’s the first gig you ever attended?
If memory serves me, (which it may not) one of the first shows I saw was Arlo Guthrie at the now closed Maritime Hall in San Francisco. I remember my mother taking me and a friend. We drove in from about two hours away. It was a great show, very intimate and I remember being in awe of Arlo.
What is the best gig that you ever played/performed?
The first time I played a “real” gig, I was 15. I played guitar with a local blues band at a brewery in Sacramento, CA. I remember being super nervous. The crowd loved it though — which in reality was about 9 people. I got a free brewery tee shirt out of the deal.
What is the best gig you have ever seen?
There’s lots. We once opened for the Blind Boys of Alabama. Their show was one of the most amazing I’ve seen. I recently saw Prince for the first time. That was amazing. About 6 years ago, I saw Buddy Miller at a little club in Nashville. There was a point in the show where he had the audience dead silent. It was beautiful.
What is the gig you would most like to play?
Smiths Olde Bar. I don’t know. Maybe someplace strange. Like on one of those party boats in the canals in Amsterdam. I’m in Amsterdam right now, so it’s on the brain.
What would be the lineup for your dream gig?
Do they have to be alive? A Muddy Waters / Howlin Wolf co-bill. The Stones can open.
Catch Jackie Greene, Oct. 5th @ Smith’s Olde Bar
