Formed in Atlanta, Blackberry Smoke (Charlie Starr, Richard Turner, Brit Turner, Paul Jackson, and Brandon Still) has been winning over fans since 2000. Mixing elements of country, gospel, bluegrass, rock and soul, there’s a little something for the ears of everyone. In the last decade, the quintet has released three full-length albums, two EPs and a live DVD, Live at the Georgia Theatre. Their latest album, The Whippoorwill, is my personal favorite (but they’re all great!). I was lucky enough to snag an interview with the guys, see what they had to say and make sure to see them on May 18 at Rome River Jam!
What are you most looking forward to about playing Rome River Jam?
Oh, you know, we love to play music so I guess we’re looking forward to playing for the good folks of Rome most of all.
What would be the lineup for your dream gig?
Well, in my dream we headline Madison Square Garden. The Stones and Tom Petty open for us, of course.
Do you have any pre-show rituals?
A cup of coffee and a couple of Bill Monroe songs.
How does your latest album, “The Whippoorwill”, differ from your first, “Bad Luck Ain’t No Crime”?
It’s better! Ha Ha. You know, playing music together as a band for years and years is a journey. The way we play together has evolved. We still have the “fire” we had back then. “Leave A Scar” on the new album is as rowdy as “Testify” on the first album. At the same time, “Sure Was Good” on the first album is as laid back as “Up The Road” or “Whippoorwill.”
Out of all the shows you have played, which was the most memorable?
That’s a hard one. Madison Square Garden with Zac Brown was great, but so was the Hollywood Bowl and Philips Arena. Too many to choose from. We’re most definitely blessed.
What do you guys have planned for the rest of 2013?
More touring and hopefully starting a new album.
Grab your tickets to see Blackberry Smoke, Craig Morgan, Ashley Monroe, Angie Johnson and Canaan Smith at Rome River Jam on May 18!
