Name: Charles Roy Washington III
Where are you from? Austin, Texas
How long have you been in Oxford? Twenty years
What instruments do you play? Saxophone, guitar, piano
What’s your favorite? Alto sax
How did you learn to play? My next door neighbor was a saxophonist.
Early music experience: Playing the xylophone in a church program
Your music Style/Genre: Feel good music
What bands have you been in/which ones are still ongoing? IZM, Big Rig, CadillacFunk, Silas Reed N Da Books are a few bands I am and/or have been a member. There are so many nameless projects with local music cats…I’d like to think every project is still “ongoing.”
What was the first concert you witnessed? Nappy Roots at the Grove
Do you have a favorite band? Too many favorites to name
One thing you would like to change about Oxford’s music scene: I wish there was a 25 and up music venue.
The best thing about Oxford’s music scene: The music scene can make you feel good enough to take it for granted. The people, friends, and good times are the best parts of it. Having the chance to meet and jam with local bands along with bands from all over is priceless. The opportunity to meet and make music with Herman Green, the Burnsides, Kenny Brown, and so many others was made possible thanks to the Oxford music scene and the meeting of musical minds it manifests.
Do you have a “day job”? If so, where? Been cooking at Boure for four years and now I am a software developer at Next Gear Solutions.
Aspirations (other than rock stardom): Asking me about goals in life reminds me of a quote. An adult asked a kid what he wanted to be in life when he grew up. He responded, “Happy.” The adult said, “You don’t understand the question.” The child said, “You don’t understand life.” My aspiration is Happiness.
(from TLV #152)
