ACL preview: Big Sam’s Funky Nation

Big Sam’s Funky Nation has one of those names that pretty much gives away the musical style of the band. What it doesn’t give away is that they have a song called “Funkin’ @ the Butt.” We caught up with Big Sam himself to talk about what qualifies him to run the Funky Nation.

That Other Paper What can ACL Fest attendees expect to see from you this year?

Big Sam They can definitely look forward to a high-energy, rump-shaking, world class show.

TOP What do you think makes a live show unforgettable?

courtesy of Big Sam’s Funky Nation 

BS An unforgettable live performance occurs when you mix singing, dancing, and soul on top of advanced musical skill in a situation that allows the audience and band to share a unique experience.

TOP How did you start playing the trombone?

BS I started playing in my junior high school marching band. It wasn’t until high school that I decided to get into jazz. I attended the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts to further enhance my musical talent. While there, I had the opportunity to study classical and jazz. It was easy to have a great drive to succeed when your school’s alumni consists of the greats such as Terence Blanchard, Nicholas Payton, and the Marsalis family.

TOP What are your favorite things to do in Austin?

BS I actually lived in Austin for a couple of months after Hurricane Katrina. Austin is a really hip town — my second favorite city next to New Orleans. One of my favorite things in Austin would have to be jammin’ with Cyril and Ivan Neville, Topaz, and Papa Mali. Big Sam’s Funky Nation has also played a couple of Austin gigs and we look forward to more as the crowd really gets what we do — much like in New Orleans.

TOP As a kid, what were you telling people you wanted to be when you grew up?

BS You can see how big and tall I am. I used to think I would be a basketball player.

TOP We’re dying to find out: What is the one secret about Elvis Costello that we don’t know?

BS You mean other than the fact that he thinks I’m the greatest trombonist that ever walked this earth?

TOP Oh, you’re coy. What else should ACL attendees know about Big Sam’s Funky Nation?

BS I’m living back in New Orleans now after my post-Katrina evacuation. With New Orleans as our home base, we’ll be bringing our heavy dose of funk across the country. Get ready to dance!