Steve Vaclavik

The band is me - for right now. ‘He’s a little bit country and a little bit rock ‘n roll.’ All right, enough of that! As soon as I learned a couple of chords I started writing songs - some with a message, some that are silly and some with a silly message. I'm honored to have had the opportunity to perform at Nashville's Bluebird Café at their songwriter's night on two occasions. I write what I feel, and as the old joke goes - sometimes I don't feel too good. Or as I've heard that Townes Van Zandt said once when asked if he knew any happy songs - "These are happy songs."

There's not much history....I've writing since about 16, realized fairly early on that I probably would be the only one performing my songs, so started performing. I decided at the start of 2007 to rededicate myself to my music.

Yes...I'll play most anywhere that will have me. I've been fortunate to play the Bluebird a couple of times at their Songwriter's Night.

My initial influences were people like Tom Petty and Bob Dylan. Along the way I've come across those folks that are usually lurking just off the radio dial - Steve Earle, Lucinda Williams, EmmyLou Harris, Wilco, etc.

I generally play acoustic/electric guitars when I perform. In the last year I've been fortunate enough to pick up some Gibson guitars. They are my main performance guitars now. I have a '82 J-50 Deluxe, a '93 Gospel, a '95 J-160e, and a '99 J-100 Xtra. I have other guitars as well, including a few electrics. I may occasionally use my Faded Worn Brown Gibson SG for some extra crunch! I have a Samson PA Head and Peavey speakers. Nothing fancy, but solid. I really don't use effects, I have a couple of Direct Boxes/Pre Amps (LR Baggs Para Acoustic DI and a Fishman Platinum Pro) but that's about it. I use a Samson Q7 mic as well as Shure SM58s - great quality, good price.

Music is something I have to do, regardless of whether I ever make any money or receive any fame. There's a feeling in my center that draws me to it.