Susan Williams and the Wright Groove Band is Making a Scene!
 |  |
Making a Scene Presents an Interview with Susan Williams of the Wright Groove Band!
This Chicago-based group brings their combined experience and the use of TWO basses to the stage to wow audiences with their unique funky approach to the blues. They went to Memphis in January 2018 to compete in the International Blues Challenge. They’ve been playing festivals around the midwest, and most recently played the Chicago Blues Festival, on Rosa’s stage.+
Their first CD, “It’s About Time,” was released in January 2018. The CD showcases all originals, nine written by vocalist/bassist Susan Williams, and two written by guitarist Mike Gallemore. Arrangements were overseen by Darryl Wright, bassist/music director. The CD has been chosen by Decatur Blues Society to be entered in the 2019 International Blues Challenge in the “Best Self-Produced CD” category.
Susan Williams hails from Chicago, and has been playing and singing professionally with her own band for over thirty years. Her powerful voice is reminiscent of Bonnie Raitt, with a tinge of Janis Joplin, and has been described as “rich, smoky, with perfect raspiness.” She has opened for Henry Lee Summer, shared the stage with Biscuit Miller (two-time BMA Bassist of the Year winner). She was also bass player for Shirley King, daughter of BB King.
Chicago native, Darryl Wright, has toured the world with Mavis Staples, among many others, and played bass for the Black Theater Ensemble of Chicago. He brings his incredible ability to this group in the form of masterful ensemble playing and amazing bass solos.
Mike Gallemore is a lifetime musician, primarily known for his guitar and song-writing skills. Mike has toured and played with many Chicago blues artists, including Sam Lay, The Kinsey Report, Sam Cockrell and the Groove, Carl Weathersby, Buddy Miles, and Floyd Miles. He has also released two CD’s of his own.
Rob Davis is a seasoned session and touring drummer, who has been part of the Chicago music scene for 20+ years. He has toured with Alex Zayas Band, the Forte Orchestra, and Sam Cockrell.
