Member Since: 4/19/2006
Band Website: http://www.jukenjamm.com/skydogs/
Band Members: THE SKYDOGS are a Memphis band with strong ties to Beale Street. They have appeared on national and international television, radio, and in film. Regularly appearing at the Beale St. Memphis In May Festival, they also appeared at the Sky Festival, the Southern Heritage Music Festival, and the King Biscuit Blues Festival, just to name a few.
RICK MCCONNELL GUITAR, VOCALS
Rick first picked up the guitar in 1964 as a young kid wanting to learn the current songs of the day. He formed his first band in 1968, The Twin Engines, playing at school dances and other functions. By the age of 14, Rick was playing in bars and dancehalls in the Memphis and surrounding areas. It was around this time that he bought his first B.B. King record and decided that he would base his playing on the Blues masters. After countless bands and other musical projects, he co-founded THE SKYDOGS with bassist Guy Venable in 1989. This began a long-running musical partnership. Rick has performed with the likes of Chuck Berry, Jim Dandy Mangrum, James Cotton, and a host of others. With a guitar style that recalls Hendrix, SRV, Clapton, and others, Rick McConnell never fails to captivate audiences.
GUY JR. VENABLE BASS, VOCALS
Coming from a blues background, Guy has developed a solid bass style with a strong groove that fits perfect with the music of THE SKYDOGS. Some of Guys credits include: Band leader for Muddy Waters harmonica player Mojo Buford, working with rock guitarist Mason Ruffner of Gypsy Blood fame and recording CD, The Alley Cats, with guitarist and producer Brad Webb for the Boogie Barbeque label. An accomplished vocalist and songwriter, Guy has written songs recorded by Stax recording artist Susanne Beulle and European favorite Ms. Zeno, the Louisiana Mojo Queen. Always looking to the future, Guy and THE SKYDOGS are looking to continue creating and playing their music to audiences everywhere.
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Type of Label: Major