Promoting and strengthening the artistic and cultural development of Orange County, North Carolina
Big Bad Voodoo Daddy
Since its formation in the early ʼ90s in California, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy has toured virtually nonstop and sold over 2 million albums. Their early residency at the Derby nightclub in Los Angeles reminded the world, amid the grunge era no less, that it was still cool to swing. The band, co-founded by singer Scotty Morris and drummer Kurt Sodergren, blends the classic American sounds of jazz, swing, and Dixieland with the energy and spirit of contemporary culture in an effort to revitalize the genre while remaining respectful of the music’s rich legacy.
Big Bad Voodoo Daddy’s first phase of stardom featured an appearance in the 1996 indie film Swingers, introducing the band to an audience beyond its Los Angeles base. BBVD’s music has appeared in films and television shows including The Wild, Despicable Me, Phineas & Ferb, Friends, and many more. Band members have appeared live on Dancing with the Stars, Late Night with Conan O’Brien, seven times on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, and the Super Bowl XXXIII Halftime Show. The band has also appeared as special guests with many of the country’s distinguished symphony orchestras and has performed for three U.S. presidents.
After 27 years, 11 records, over 3,000 live shows, and countless appearances in film and television, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, with its all-original core lineup, shows no signs of slowing down and is looking forward to sharing its music with fans new and old alike in 2020.
Jake Shimabukuro
Jake Shimabukuro is a humble master of the ukulele whose mission is to connect and inspire people. He shares a deep emotional connection with the listener that is open, magical, and transcendent. Often referred to as the Miles Davis, Jimi Hendrix, Bruce Lee, or Michael Jordan of his craft, Shimabukuro performs around the world with an out-of-the-box blend of stunning virtuosity, deep musicality, and a natural entertainer’s flair. He takes the ukulele to places no one has gone before, performing awe-inspiring music that ranges from jazz, blues, and rock to bluegrass, classical, and folk.
On his latest album, Trio, Shimabukuro begins a bold new chapter; the artist himself regards it as a personal best.
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