Summary: Will Hoge "Most performers are willing to follow whatever formulas or procedures they think worked for others. Will Hoge epitomizes the new model for rock musicians in the 21st century: free-spirited and individualistic, knowledgeable of the past but not obsessed with it, and imminently capable of bringing renewed creative energy and passion to an idiom that sometimes seems devoid of inventiveness and edge. Hoge incorporates the best of both the singer/songwriter genre and vintage, surging rock 'n roll. Through sharp lyricisms and strong melodies, his songs tell stories that are delivered with a passion and desperation that demand attention. His trademark blend of classic and contemporary elements was decisively defined in his debut album Carousel, which set the tone for subsequent albums, including his follow-up major label release on Atlantic Records, Blackbird On A Lonely Wire. Explosive live performances, non-stop touring and a commitment to songwriting have earned Hoge and his band a fanatical following as well as critical acclaim. His is a classic rock soul that includes the inspiration of early Springsteen, the swagger of The Stones and the heart of Otis Redding. With powerful songs about love, loss, longing and joy, thundering rhythms and howling guitars, audiences are instantly reminded as to why they fell in love with rock and roll in the first place." ~Jambase "Roots rock up-and-comer, Will Hoge started his career as a history teacher, with aspirations of someday coaching high school level basketball in his home state of Kentucky. But fate intervened in the form of a rock & roll pickup band he gathered together to play a few of the songs he'd been writing. When Will realized the responses he could get from a non-sports crowd, Hoge relocated his dreams and his mailbox to Nashville, Tennessee, where he put together a more professional band and released a self-produced live album he'd recorded at a local show. All Night Long became a local rock success story in this mecca of country music, and sold a surprising 4,000 CDs. Flush with this minor triumph, the band toured the coast and began to generate the sort of industry buzz that draws the record contract people. Atlantic finally picked up Hoge and he released Carousel in 2000. 2003's Bird on a Lonely Wire was even more successful both artistically and commercially. Though the ex-Georgia Satellite, Dan Baird has left the band, his replacement Brian Layson continues to fuel Hoge's distinctive blue-collar sound." ~Napster
