Chris Curtis
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with Student Crossing. The band won a couple of local talent shows, which gave them the opportunity to record two studio albums. For the past 10 or so years Chris Curtis has also been playing guitar in a band that started out as Quart of Rye, and then changed to Classic Blvd some years back.
“I am now also playing bass in the band (Bandwagon) that will backup Amy Jones for the upcoming Country Music Appreciation Jam at Burroughs Falls,” he added.
The multi-instrumentalist is always ready to live a new musical experience, to share his talent and to add another string to the bow of his artistry. So far his accomplishments are pretty impressive. Many different styles of music influenced the musician he is today.
“My influences are pretty broad. Ranging from Merle Haggard, to Dave Grohl. The list is far too long! If you’ve seen Slightly Haggard live, it's quite obvious that we are pretty big admirers of Merle Haggard”.
For quite a few years now he has been a fan of the low key, unknown guys. Cody Jinks, Whitey Morgan, The Steelwoods and Blackberry Smoke; musicians that are more traditional country and rock.
“Though to this day I am still a fan of bands from my youth ranging from Foo Fighters to Pearl Jam and beyond. I have always admired a variety of genres,” he said about his eclectic taste.
“With Slightly Haggard, we are fortunate to be asked to play all these amazing benefits and events. There are so many great people that come out to see us on a regular basis. It's really incredible. The music scene in this area seems to be dwindling at a fast rate” he explained.
“There are not many opportunities to play live with a group anymore. I am also grateful to be able to branch out on occasion to play guitar and bass. I just hope to be able to continue this journey.”
Playing music can be difficult with a young family because it's hard to be away so much. So it is easily understandable when he said that he is a blessed guy to have a wife that supports him being gone on weekends.
Slightly Haggard and Classic Blvd just wrapped up playing Cookshire Fair and Ayer’s Cliff Fair. With many gigs in store for the year to come, Chris Curtis is a lucky guy indeed but his luck came from hours of honing his skills and a great attitude towards life.
“My short musical career has had plenty of great and amusing times. Some rough times as well but mostly just great memories with awesome people. It's always been an enjoyable time to load up a bunch of guys in one vehicle with a trailer and head out to a gig. Always come home with a sore belly from all the laughs,” he concluded.
You can catch him on Sept. 7 at the Burroughs Falls Dance Hall backing up country singer Amy Jones.