For over 30 years, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy has been keeping the spirit of swing alive with their unique blend of jazz, blues, and swing music. Founded in 1989 in Ventura, California, the band has become a staple of the modern swing revival scene, thanks to their infectious sound and high-energy performances.
With a career that spans over three decades, the band has played in some of the most iconic venues in the world, including the Hollywood Bowl, the Lincoln Center, and the Sydney Opera House. They’ve also been featured in countless movies, TV shows, and commercials, and have collaborated with some of the biggest names in the industry, including Brian Setzer, Stevie Wonder, and Bonnie Raitt.
Despite their success, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy has always stayed true to their roots, taking inspiration from the legends of the swing era who have shaped the landscape of American music. With influences ranging from Louis Armstrong’s iconic trumpet to Duke Ellington’s big band arrangements and Benny Goodman’s clarinet virtuosity, the band’s music is a tribute to the timeless sounds that continue to captivate audiences worldwide. Their signature sound is a unique blend of horn-driven melodies, tight rhythms, and playful lyrics that capture the infectious joy and spirit of the swing era. It’s no wonder that Big Bad Voodoo Daddy has become a driving force in the modern swing revival scene, earning fans all over the world with their dynamic live performances and infectious energy.
Big Bad Voodoo Daddy was formed in 1989 in Ventura, California, by lead vocalist and guitarist Scotty Morris. The band’s early performances were a mix of swing, jazz, and blues, and they quickly gained a reputation for their energetic live shows and infectious music. The band’s name is derived from an album by blues legend Albert Collins, and it reflects their eclectic and irreverent approach to music. Over the years, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy has become a driving force in the modern swing revival, earning critical acclaim and a dedicated following of fans around the world.
Big Bad Voodoo Daddy released their self-titled debut album in 1994, which quickly became a fan favorite thanks to its infectious blend of swing and jump blues. The album’s opening track, “The Boogie Bumper,” immediately sets the tone for the rest of the record with its swinging horns and driving rhythm section. Other standout tracks include “Jumpin’ Jack,” a high-energy tribute to the legendary Jack Kerouac, and “Minnie the Moocher,” a classic Cab Calloway tune that showcases the band’s signature style. The album also features several original compositions, including “Go Daddy-O,” a catchy tune that became one of the band’s biggest hits. With their debut album, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy established themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the world of swing music and set the stage for a long and successful career.
Big Bad Voodoo Daddy’s album, Louie, Louie, Louie, is a loving tribute to the legacies of Louis Armstrong, Louis Jordan, and Louis Prima. The album features a mix of classic covers and original compositions that pay homage to the joyful spirit and infectious energy of these iconic musicians. Highlights include a swinging version of Louis Armstrong’s “What a Wonderful World,” featuring Morris’s soulful vocals and Marhevka’s virtuosic trumpet playing, as well as a rollicking rendition of Louis Prima’s “Jump, Jive, an’ Wail,” complete with Hunter’s electrifying saxophone solos. The album contains various original compositions inspired by three legendary Louis’s, such as “Still in the Mood,” which pays homage to Louis Jordan’s jump blues style with its playful sound. Additionally, the album features a soulful ballad titled “Is It Just Me,” which allows Morris’s heartfelt lyrics and Levy’s exceptional piano skills to shine. With Louie, Louie, Louie, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy pays homage to some of the most important figures in American music and reaffirms their own place in the pantheon of swing greats.
The band consists of nine talented musicians, each bringing their own unique style and energy to their performances. Lead vocalist and guitarist Scotty Morris is the driving force behind Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, with his charismatic stage presence and soulful vocals. Other members include trumpet player Glen “The Kid” Marhevka, saxophonist Karl Hunter, drummer Kurt Sodergren, bassist Dirk Shumaker, pianist Joshua Levy, trombonist Alex Henderson, and percussionist Dirk Shumaker. Together, the band creates a dynamic and vibrant sound that has earned them a dedicated following of fans all over the world.
Big Bad Voodoo Daddy will be bringing their swinging sounds to Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle’s premier jazz club, for a four-day residency from July 13th to July 16th. Established in 1979, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley has been a hub for live jazz performances in Seattle, hosting world-renowned artists and emerging talent alike. The club offers an intimate and sophisticated atmosphere, with table seating and a full-service menu featuring Pacific Northwest cuisine and classic cocktails. During their residency, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy will perform hits from their extensive catalog, featuring classic swing and jazz tunes that have earned them a dedicated following of fans all over the world. With their dynamic and vibrant sound, the band promises to deliver a swinging good time at Jazz Alley.
For more information and to buy tickets, visit Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley’s website.
