Multiple award-winning boogie-woogie blues pianist-vocalist Victor Wainwright (a/k/a ‘Piana From Savannah’) kicks off his 2018 U.S./Canada Spring/Summer Tour in support of just-released album Victor Wainwright & the Train (Ruf Records), with a Record Release Party at The Bank & Blues, 701 Main St., two big nights, Thursday, March 29 and Friday, March 30.
Among his numerous accolades: In 2013 and 2014, Wainwright won the ‘Pinetop Perkins Piano Player of the Year’ at the Blues Music Awards. Also in 2013, his collaborative album, Easy Livin’ , made the Top 10 in the US Billboard Top Blues Album Chart. Wainwright has always been an artist that sets the pace. Born into a musical family in Savannah, Georgia, the formative influence of his father’s vocals and grandfather’s rolling boogie-woogie piano compelled him into a life of music. At a sweet-spot in his career, where most established stars would rest on their laurels, Victor Wainwright & The Train instead rips up all that has gone before.
Photo By: Austin Britt
Blues-E-News caught up to Wainwright prior to departing for his tour, for our 5 Quick questions series. Here’s how it went.
BEN: This upcoming tour takes you across the U.S. and up into Canada as well. Do you see any noticeable differences between audiences in our country, and in the Great White North?
VW: Whether we’re traveling in the states or across the border, audiences everywhere have treated us outstandingly. There are small differences, like dancing and applauding solos, but overall, I just feel really blessed to be able to travel and tour as much as we do, seeing the blues community thrive and be well across the world.
BEN: Are there any new cities and/or venues on this tour you’re looking forward to playing?
VW: Every time I see something new come across our calendar I get really excited! It means we have the golden opportunity to make new friends. We haven’t played the Blue Bamboo Arts Center in Winter Park, FL or the Canadian Corps Unit 44 Hall in Thorold, Ontario. I’m really looking forward to meeting some new friends in both these spots coming up soon!
BEN: What’s a short checklist of things that every musician should remember to take on a long road tour? (this will be especially helpful to first-timers)
VW: Wallet, keys, phone…. the basics… but also, patience, and a good positive attitude (sometimes it’s going to be hard). Remember that you’re going to be spending every moment with the people in your band. Wake up, there’s your friend, all day riding, performing, then back to the van, then the hotel… rinse and repeat. Your attitude effects the band and those around you. So always remember, that on long road trips especially, bring a positive mental mindset, and patience. 🙂
BEN: I’m a foodie so let’s “go there”: What cities have what you consider to be the best authentic cuisine?
VW: We try to experience what each state or even city is known for. Sometimes we put out feelers to our local fan base to see where we should go! I’m a sucker for Thai and Chinese food in Montreal, smoke meat too! Pizza in Chicago and NY, Philly’s in Philly, Wings in Buffalo, BBQ in Memphis… you know, generally we’ve been spot on, and although there are lots of hidden gems, we get excited about getting a deep dish while in Chicago if the time allows just like anyone else passing through!
BEN: Parting thought about your upcoming tour, new album, anything at all?
VW: I hope people will come to our shows ready for something exciting and new, because that’s what we’re aiming to deliver; a great time!! When you listen to the record too, I really hope it’s immediately apparent, that we want to share our joy with you. 🙂
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