Kevin Wayne (The Retrobilleze) – Thanks for Asking
Written by Staff on March 30, 2024
Kevin Wayne (The Retrobilleze) – Thanks for Asking – by Liam Sweeny.
RRX: Do you have anything out there for the hordes to consume? What do you have? (most current thing) And do you have any shows or events coming out next month?
KW: Yes. We have a new CD, King of The Beach, recorded at Sandcreek Studios Colonie and The Retrobilleze Stickers for display too, both Available at our Shows. The CD is available for Streaming on Bandcamp. We have two upcoming CD Release shows Thursday May 16th 7PM at Rock Hill Bakehouse in Glens Falls and Friday June 7th at Erie Canal Distillers in Fort Plain It will be a Retro Wild Time all original tunes!!
RRX: Different people in the band will like different songs. A drummer’s favorite song on the release will be different than the guitar player’s. What are each of your favorite songs from your most recent album? (If you’re a solo artist, how about giving us your favorite song from a fellow local musician or band, and why)
KW: From the current Album, King of the Beach, the title track for its bassey beachie vibe and sand kicked in your face muscle redemption. Also Dodge Dart Swinger, about My Bandmate Bassist/Lead Guitarist Jo’s 1st College Car, strong alternative vibe with that crazy walkdown. And last but not least, Hi-Way 9. Strong alternative style in minor key about alcohol and breaking the law on our own Rt 9
RRX: Cover art is cool. It shows listeners what the artist thinks the album is all about. Because music can be felt visually. If you had to give the public a visual image that you think they would see and just “get” your groove right away, what would it be?
KW: I think we’re Sha NaNa mixed with a little punk doing originals with rockabilly rarities and classic country ala Johnny Cash with some Utica Club, Elvis, burgers, drive-in movies, and roller derby mixed in! We cover all those topics in our original songs.
RRX: Playing out is tricky because you never know what’s going to happen when you get there. Sometimes everything goes wrong. What was your worst show like?
KW: We played a show about a year ago for a museum. That day was the hottest day on record over a hundred degrees. Got there was to play outside, weather said possible Storms. Brought a tent, fought to get the thing set up, then all the gear set up. Drenched with sweat, my band mates showed up, started playing/ A huge typhoon with torrential rain starts. Moved inside. Everything soaked and we finished the Gig by Arifacts Case in the museum. Even hotter in there, Lost the majority of the audience. The show must go on!
RRX: You sing or you rap, you play guitar, play drums, what have you, you have no doubt struggled to learn music. Something probably tripped you up. What was it for each of you? What did you have to overcome (bands, pick a member)?
KW: First for me was shyness. When I first started, I literally would sweat so much it would Sting my eyes. Dropped the pick and I’d get muscle spasm and couldn’t play rhythm, Thankfully, that has subsided. Learned so Much from my Incredible band mates. Always learning new rhythms and guitar tricks. Even took up piano this past year!
RRX: We all get a little support from those around us. And we also can be impressed by our fellow performers. Who do you admire in your community, and why?
KW: So Many!! In our community. Johnny Rabb, John Tichy for their incredible talents and longevity. They lived and lived the dream. So much history! Mark Gamsjager, for his incredible talent, professionalism, and awesome rockabilly shows with diverse bandmates and his encouragement for my music!
Nationally, Jittery Jack and Blood Shot Bill for their original rockabilly music, showmanship and their encouragement and support!
Lastly my bandmate Jo Voodoo for her patience, unique vision, and ability to pull unique nuances out of my original songs. I admire her incredible diversity as a musician, bass and lead guitar and awesome backing vocalist too!
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