" I have always been impressed by Dan's command
of the blues, both vocally and on the guitar. A hell of
an all around entertainer! "
Dave Van Ronk
New York City
"This troubadour of acoustic blues has the knack for capturing the essence of the blues. Dan Stevens will no doubt join the ranks of Paul Rishell and Keb' Mo
with strong cuts that convey authenticity."
Blues Rag
Baltimore Blues Society
" Dan Stevens is an acknowledged master in the acoustic blues scene. "
Billtown Blues Assoc.
Williamsport PA
Some news.......
Stevens / D’Amato Make Finals at International
Blues Challenge Beale St., Memphis TN
Representing the CT Blues Society, Dan Stevens and Chris D’Amato faced two tough days of competiition on Beale St. emerging as one of six finalist acts in the solo/duo division of the International Blues Challenge ’08 in Memphis TN. 160 acts from 27 countries participated in the event. As finalists, Dan and Chris were exposed to industry professionals, djs, festival planners and rabid blues fans in the final round held at the historic 2300 seat Orpheum Theatre.
Onstage at the Orpheum Theatre, Beale St., Memphis TN
Dan Stevens Makes Roster of Music Under New York
As I write, I'm on the train to NYC again (the only time I get anything done). I recently had the honor of being chosen to be on the roster of the prestigious Music Under New York program which sanctions musicians to play in preferred spots in the New York Subway. I am now playing in the subways 3-5 times a month in addition to my monthly Sunday Brunch gig at the Delta Grill in Hell's Kitchen near Times Square. My favorite spots so far are at the Times Square Shuttle and in the Mezzanine of Grand Central Station. The acoustics even beat singing in the shower! From 200 submissions the Metropolitan Transit Authority chose 75 people to do a live audition in Grand Central Station in front of 25 judges including industry people, transit workers, politicians and others. They gave us five minutes to impress the judges and thankfully, I made the cut with 22 others in a diverse collection of genres... The audition was a real TV and print media event and I was interviewd as one of four artists who were profiled in a New York Times article on the occasion. Have already met tons of interesting people (and some crazy ones too!) and am looking forward to the huge networking opportunity that this affords... When in New York, look for me Down Under !!
Grand Central Station - NYC
Chillin’ in St. Crioix during ’08 tour
-- “Can’t Make Me Blue” by Dan Stevens is currently getting airplay on XM Radio’s Channel 74, Bluesville.
-- Dan’s original song “Drivin’ Fool” was recently featured on Natiional Public Radio’s popular show, “Car Talk”.
-- Got to play recently at the ‘Big Read” event in Bridgeport
sponsored by the National Endowment for the Arts which
was attended by First Lady Laura Bush, Rep. Chris Shays
and other dignitaries.
-- Just booked my Feb. ‘09 tour to play at the Blue Moon
in Fredriksted, St. Croix, US Virgin Islands. Special
appearance by famed local bluesman Blind Lemon Gouda
playing the baritone cheese grater (believe it or not).
Other News........
Stevens / D’Amato Interview
on WNPR - CT Public Radio
International Blues Challenge
Dan Stevens and Chris D’Amato were interviewed by award winning radio journalist Faith Middleton on WNPR - CT Public Radio. The insightful interview included some very thought provoking questions about the Memphis trip and features live performance. Pictured at right are Dan,
Faith Middlelton and Chris D’Amato in the WNPR studio
in New Haven CT.
Come to.....
B.O.M.B. Fest
I’ll be making an appearance at this years B.O.M.B.Fest on Sunday, May 30 at 7pm at the Durham Fairgrounds in Durham CT. Check it out... Four stages featuring many national acts, paired with local and regional up and coming talent for a cause... 12,000 people expected. Check out
this great non-profit organization who is an up and coming player in the movement to “Bring Our Music Back”. Details at www.bombfest.com