And deWinner is ...
DeFrance claims big prize at Murphy Arts District
deFrance returned to the stage on Saturday, March 6, for the Murphy Arts District’s second annual MAD Battle and emerged victorious with not only the grand prize of $2,500, but also awards for best vocalist and best showmanship.
The event took place at the First Financial Music Hall in El Dorado. Six other bands from across the mid-South participated, including Jimmy Lewis & 8 Second Ride, Crutchfield, Jasper Wilderness, Lead Pipe Conservatory Band, Boots Bailey and the Boys and Fox Eating Foxes.
Joe Hewitt, of Lead Pipe Conservatory Band, won best instrumentalist in the battle of the bands contest.
“Not only do we have the best band in rock & roll, we also have the best singer, and we’re ready to show the world,” said Drew deFrance.
deFrance premiered a new lineup on Saturday with the addition of lead vocalist and American Idol alum Charlie Askew and seasoned session musician and fellow Camden native Mitchell Lowe on guitar.
“It feels electrifying and it was an honor winning best vocalist. It feels good that this was my first show with deFrance and I think it’s a great sign of things to come,” Askew said.
Road warriors deFrance were gearing up for a busy and successful past year full of international touring dates but were forced to cancel plans due to the COVID-19 outbreak. The band is looking forward to 2021, with tour dates to be announced soon, and shows with major acts including Foghat and Atlanta Rhythm Section already on the books.
Learn more about deFrance at deFranceMusic.com.