Pro level country-rock guitarist and vocalist for working band

Great Barrington MA

Description

I’m an experienced country/rock lead guitarist, and a strong (male) lead vocalist, especially for modern and classic country. Been working classic rock gigs in NYC area for the last few years but am now scoping for a band situation in Western Mass/Upstate NY, where I now spend more of my time. I have pro chops, a pro attitude, pro experience, and pro gear. I can play all the usual classic rock standards and can and have carried lead vocals for classic rock in recent years — all night if needed. But I love country music much more, and that’s my true wheelhouse both as a guitarist (chicken picking and steel licks are my thing) and a singer (I have an authentically Texan twang). So I’m more interested in playing country than straight up classic rock, but a hybrid (which is usually necessary in the northeast) is fine for me too. I know hundreds of songs and can learn anything I don’t know fast. I don’t want a situation where metal or pop are the focus. A little of each is fine. I look the part. Mid-50s, but fit, with a long-haired burly “good old boy” stage presence — I’ll be fine in any redneck bar. I know how to work the crowd and keep the show cooking. Ideally I’d like to play out most weekends, but at least a couple times a month. I’m almost always in Western Mass on weekends, and driving down to NYC for gigs has gotten old. I also own a high end QSC PA system (and a truck to haul it), and I double on harmonicas, mandolin and bass, read music, and know music theory. I am also a very strong fingerstyle acoustic guitarist and harmony vocalist. (I’m looking to play electric primarily but would be fine in a more acoustic/bluegrass setting). I show up on time, know my parts, and get along with people easily. My ego, while not small, is under control. Not looking just to jam, nor any kind of “tribute band” act (unless you want to start a Merle Haggard tribute band, then I’m your man). A working bar band that covers country and classic rock would be ideal. Open to a brand new project if the goal is playing out and the other players are serious about it.