Let's introduce the band
The Blackjacks are . . .
Wanderin' Wilf
Richard Taylor (Wanderin’ Wilf) is frontman, lead vocalist and harmonica player for The Blackjacks.
Originally a piano player, he picked up the harmonica to join the school blues band and figured out the rest by listening to vinyl records. Richard went on to become a national harmonica champion and has shared the stage with blues professionals worldwide.
Between shows Richard teaches harmonica through his Harp Academy, edits the Harp Surgery website and produces the international harmonica festival Harpin’ By The Sea. Richard is also a former committee member for the HarmonicaUK.
Mojo Matt
From Yorkshire roots, ‘Mojo’ Matt Windler is The Blackjacks’ guitar wizard. A telecaster master of versatility, Matt can drive home a loping Texas shuffle or tug on your heartstrings with a weeping slow-blues.
Matt’s no slouch on making things swing or even adding a sizzle of country twang to the mix. He’ll take you on a trip to the heart of the blues every time, plain and simple.
The ‘Mojo Man’ underpins and rejuvenates every song, every time. He’ll have you on your feet, moving and grooving in the wink of an eye.
Texas Slim
Simon ‘Texas Slim’ Sparrow is the bass player for The Blackjacks. He started playing at sixteen on an instrument so awful it was a workout just to hold the strings down.
These days Simon is at home with a Fender in his hands, providing the pocket that underpins The Blackjacks’ famous rhythm. Simon sings backing and lead vocals too.
Steeped in years of the blues, Simon is also a founding member of Brighton’s legendary Lenna and the Snakemen. He has played and recorded with many American blues artists over the years and most recently depped on bass for Dr. Feelgood.
Juke Joint Jerry
‘Juke Joint’ Jerry Midmer has been playing drums since he was ten. He eventually traded the pots and pans for a full drumkit and joined a gigging band in Plymouth before relocating to the Sussex delta.
Jerry has provided a solid beat and backing vocals to a host of Sussex bands over the last thirty years, including Rock’n’Roll stalwarts Micky Hart & The Hartbrakers.
With Blues, swing and Rock’n’Roll in his veins, Jerry loves playing with the Blackjacks, propelling their songs with drive, enthusiasm and animation.
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