Today we’d like to introduce you to Chris Wayne
Hi Chris, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My Grandmother always had a small collection of Elvis Presley, Ricky Nelson and Fats Domino playing around the house. When I first heard that music, I knew I loved it. For me, that was Rock n’ Roll! When I was a kid, there was no one to teach me guitar, but I always wanted to play. I got a beat-up guitar and taught myself a few cowboy chords. However, I didn’t make any progress until I bought a guitar a few years back. It was inspiring to see artists like Dex Romweber, of Flat Duo Jets, making contemporary records clearly influenced by the music of the 1950s. I also admire Tom Waits, and Poison Ivy, guitarist and Producer of The Cramps, especially her guitar sound, but my main influence is the music and style of the 1950’s. Little Richard, Chuck Berry, and Bill Haley never disappoint! After college, I lived in New York City for several years where I studied acting. It was a period of growth for me. I was fortunate enough to work with some extremely talented actors and singers. I’m very proud of the work I did during that time. Brian Williams, musical director for Isle of Sholes Productions, was very encouraging and supportive of my singing. He gave me the confidence to pursue a career in music. I performed in over 20 Off-Off Broadway plays including the Sam French Festival, and I also played John Lennon in the musical production, “Come Away.”
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Trying to distinguish yourself while finding work is challenging, and I’ve been lucky that many venue owners and booking agents seem to understand what I’m going for. But for me, the main struggle is the nagging voice of self-doubt, although it’s probably that way for a lot of artists. I mean, Rockabilly was born when Elvis Presley, Bill Black, and Scotty Moore were desperately trying to impress Sam Phillips at Sun Records.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I play American music–Rockabilly and Blues. My originals reflect blended Americana with influences of Rock, Swing, Country, Delta Blues, and New Orleans R&B. I released my first single, “Fiona,” March 15, 2021. It received a great review from Slap that Bass, AJ’s Rockin Music Reviews. Brandon Anderson described my style as “Crooner with an edge.” “Fiona” also received recognition from numerous radio outlets from the East Coast to California and was played by Rockabilly Radio out of the UK. I’ve released 6 singles in the past 3 years. I write and produce all my original music. I also played all instruments on “Fiona,” “Iron Horse of the Desert” and “Bricks for Sale.” “Route 68” was nominated for Best Single in the Upstate Music Awards for SC. I’m currently working on a new more traditional Rockabilly oriented song to be released soon. This style of music touches my soul, and I hope to share the happiness it brings me.
You can find Chris Wayne’s original music on iTunes, Spotify or anywhere you stream or download music. Chris performs all over SC, NC and GA. He can be reached for bookings at: chriswaynemusic@att.net
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
My happiness comes from performing live. It brings me great joy to share a musical experience with others. I also enjoy the films and music of the 1950s, especially the work of James Dean, Elizabeth Taylor, Montgomery Clift, and, of course, Marlon Brando. On my last trip to NYC, I was invited up to tour James Dean’s NYC apartment on W. 68th St, and I was so blown away with how well preserved it was compared to the photos of Dean taken by Dennis Stock. I hope to make it to Graceland one day soon!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chriswaynemusician/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100060452332373
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@chriswayne5000
- Other: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5RfUjyx8jNlnA1eZRrkyGE?si=jPYKEhfWQg-AC3LNOUNy5A
