Interview: Rebirth Brass Band.
Rebirth Brass Band is a New Orleans institution. Their Tuesday night shows at the Maple Leaf Bar are sweaty, wild and legendary. Rebirth Brass Band are playing Jazz Fest 2015, on April 26th. Band founder and tuba player Phil Frazier recently discussed the formation of Rebirth Brass Band, his love of Jazz Fest and advice to aspiring musicians. For more info on Rebirth Brass Band, check out http://www.rebirthbrassband.com/
Did you come from a musical family?
Yes, I come from a musical family.
What was your earliest musical memory?
I remember playing our first second line in ’84.
How did Rebirth Brass Band first come together?
I formed the band back in ’83 at Joseph S. Clark.
How does your creative process work when songwriting?
Everybody has input when it comes down to writing songs.
What do you enjoy most about playing Jazz Fest?
I love to see all my fans all over the world come together in 1 place to see us.
What have been some of your favorite memories of Jazz Fest?
The year it rained and we were onstage rocking hard. They had to cut the power onstage ’cause of the bad weather.
Rebirth Brass Band plays the Maple Leaf every Tuesday. What is it about playing the Maple Leaf that makes it so special?
The Maple Leaf has been our home for the last 26 years.
What have been the biggest challenges you’ve had to overcome in your career?
I had a stroke 8 years ago and I had to bounce back ’cause I love playing music.
What advice would you give to musicians just starting out?
Never give up and always follow your heart and dreams.