Sourdough Slim rekindles the country blues, cowboy classics and popular jazz standards of pre-WWII America. Whether he’s vamping the haunting refrain of a Jimmie Rodgers blue yodel or stomping out a hot novelty rave-up, the fun this cutup has on stage inevitably spills out into the audience.
The News caught up with Slim and asked what makes him such a versatile musician and what brings him to Boulevard Music on Saturday, Feb. 17 from 8 to 10 p.m.
When did you start playing and writing music, and when did
you start taking it seriously?
My interest in music goes back as far as I can remember. A natural born ham you could say. My mother started me off on steel guitar lessons when I was six and I played various horns in school bands. After high school I took up guitar and started writing songs and performing professionally with a number of western bands. Mostly on weekends. In 1991 I quit my job as a UPS driver and have been performing full time around the country as Sourdough Slim ever since.
Who are your main influences?
The music and culture of the 1920’s and 30’s. Country, jazz, blues, novelty, popular. I love it all. That’s the era that speaks to me. Bob Wills, Jimmie Rodgers, Louis Armstrong, Robert Johnson, W. C. Fields.
Describe your own style…
I bill myself as Sourdough Slim, “Last Of The Vaudeville Cowboys.” Drawing from the above-mentioned influences along with original songs that retain a vintage feel. All presented by this retro, wise cracking, over the top, singing cowboy. W. C. Fields meets Gene Autry!
Where are you based? What do you think of the local scene?
I live in the small northern California foothill community of Paradise. Although I rarely perform in my own backyard, I have built a good following around the country of folks who are into the genre of music I play.
Do you have any albums / singles available?
Currently I have 7 CD’s available. My latest entitled “Whoop It Up!” is a collection of all original songs with a retro western flavor. Available at my shows, on my website and downloadable through Amazon, I-Tunes, Apple and CD Baby.
Have you played Boulevard Music before? How did that
connection happen? How did it go?
I have performed a Boulevard Music many times although it has been a few years since I was there last. It’s a great little concert series. Always a good house of enthusiastic music lovers.
What can we expect from the set?
A fast-paced theatrical performance of vintage and original music and comedy for anyone looking to have a good time on Saturday night.
Boulevard Music is at 4316 Sepulveda Blvd., Culver City. Call 310-398-2583 for ticket prices.