Jesse Greene. Photo credit: Sean Sisk
The Bluesfest locals series will introduce you to the talented music makers from the Ottawa area performing at this year’s RBC Bluesfest. Come on out early to Bluesfest and discover some great new local music!
Jesse Greene Band
Friday, July 7
8:00 pm
Barney Danson Theatre
Bio
Jesse Greene’s talent and creativity draw from a diverse musical pallet, including blues, folk, jazz, classical and world music. Her complex and flowing melodic lines aided by her spirited and flawless execution can take the listener on a unique musical journey. With a rich and inspiring bluesy voice, she creates the perfect complement to her strong original songs, and her eclectic renditions of classics. Jesse’s welcoming and heartfelt presentation make her performances a very special experience for each member of her audience. Jesse Greene is a driving force on her own as well as an enigmatic player, writer, and vocalist. The Jesse Greene Band won the Ottawa Road to Memphis competition and were finalists at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis. With multiple Bluesfest performances over the years and her blues hit Mojo Man that made and stayed in the Dawg FM top 20 for over a year, she is known as a guitarist with deadly chops and a voice full of soul.
The Talent
Jesse Greene – Guitar, Vocals
Jeff Asselin – Drums
Dave Schroeder – Bass Guitar
Q&A
Who was the first person you told you were performing at Bluesfest this year?
My Mother Heather Walters. She was thrilled to see me back in the Bluesfest lineup this year with a killer new lineup, She was at most every show and was my best friend and also my graphic designer. We sadly lost her earlier this year, and when I hit the stage at 8 pm Friday in the Barney Danson, there will be a special moment of acknowledgment for her and all she meant to me.
Please describe your sound.
Rootsy Bluesy Originals and anthemic rock tunes. A power 3 piece with explosions of Hendrix and Joplin, wild and fearless improvisations, blending elements of Jazz, Soul, Country, Swamp, Heavy Rock and sweet original blues ballads to blend a fine and invigorating sound tapestry. Jesse commands the stage with her searing guitar and heart wrenching vocals and brings down the house at every occasion.
How did you get started on your musical journey?
My parents taught me very young and we always had music playing in the house. Both of them were professional musicians, playing piano guitar keys and harmonica between them. We always had a piano in the house and I played my way through the RCM and even competed playing at a grade 8 level before I turned 12, then I picked up the guitar and found a new love. I started my first band around then A Beatles and early rock and roll cover band in grade 7 and then another in high school, then a rock band Frank James, in my 20’s and a a funk reggae worldbeat band Jokko that made it’s first debut at Ottawa Bluesfest in 2007. I then formed the Jesse Greene band and even went to Memphis representing my hometown at the International Blues Challenge and coming in the top 11 bands internationally in 2010.
What’s your connection to Ottawa and the local music scene?
Everything from busking to festivals and all types of porch to poolside to bars festivals fundraisers and fairs. I have taught at Ottawa Folklore Centre, Bluesfest School of Music and Art, Be in the band and Blues in the Schools programs as well as Long and McQuade. Jeff Asselin has his own drum academy here as well as Dave Schroeder teaches music at Carleton University.
Will you be playing any new music at Bluesfest and/or releasing/released new music ahead of your performance?
We will be playing new music as I never play the same song the same way twice, and classic Jesse Greene Band tunes with the new band which is only about to play our 7th show together but are seeking opportunities for funding for our next release.
What artists are you hoping to catch during this year’s Bluesfest?
Hoping to catch Foo Fighters, Southern Avenue, Angelina Hunter Trio, Suzie Vinnick, and many more!!
Any performances people could catch ahead of Bluesfest?
Keep an eye on our website and social media for surprise appearances!