of...
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(actual marquis from Florence, SC) |
In the fall of 2003, Jack, primarily a solo acoustic entertainer who also played bass
for a very popular local band, received a phone call from the owner of a Columbia venue. The owner called because he
had watched Jack perform before and noticed that Jack played with personality and humor and wanted to know if he would
be able to play at his establishment the following weekend. Jack informed the caller that he happened to be free and that
he would be more than happy to play. The owner, trying not to interrupt, went on to explain that although he does have one
man shows during the week, the weekends are normally reserved for groups, duos, etc. He then asked Jack if he could bring
more than just himself in order to liven things up on a day where they were typically accustomed to a larger package of entertainment.
Once an agreement was met, the owner ended the conversation by calmly stating, "Come on out and play for us, just BRING
SOMEBODY!"
When Jack hung up the phone, his mind raced through all of the available fellow musicians he knew of. He needed someone
that was versatile, talented, and most importantly, who could add to the overall experience. He knew this was required, but
the only musician that would possibly be able to play was a DRUMMER, and as a rule guitarists and drummers do not normally
make up a complete band. As Jack sat and thought about all of his options, only one name came to mind, Devin.
Devin, a talented drummer and current band mate was if anything, an entertainer. The
only problem was to convince him to come onboard so that a promise could be kept. Upon hearing Jacks predicament, Devin reluctantly
agreed however had reservations due to the fact that he had never played with just a guitarist. Long story short, Jack and
Devin performed flawlessly that weekend and brought a whole new experience to the people in attendance. One listener asked,
What is your bands name? to which Devin replied, Why, uh, we are Me & A Friend. The name was a play on words and has been their name ever since. Compliments were
received and appreciation was given in return as that weekend proved that the EXPERIENCE is created and endorsed by
the people and simply allowed both Jack and Devin to play a part. (Not to mention their instruments) The comments like I
cant believe that the two of you can create so much music. and When I was walking into the front door, I could
have sworn that there was a full band inside. really set the tone for any future performance and continues to do
so today.
Both Jack and Devin enjoy playing the music from yesteryear as well as today. They share
the same philosophy that they do not have fans, groupies, or fanatics, but rather friends. They realize that
it is not about them, but rather the people they play to. That, along with the commitment of playing FOR the
people versus playing TO the people, is what sets Jack and Devin apart from the rest. There may be
bands with more people or more instruments, but no one can refute that Me & A Friend are making a difference
one friend at a time.
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