1. Can you share something about your band that most may not know?

The lead singer is a big fan of the first five David Cassidy LP's.

2. How would you describe your sound or genre as opposed to, perhaps, how a snotty music critic might classify you?

It's honky tonk but there are so many other elements to it. Musically there's soul, country-rock, 70's sunshine pop, all of those. Attitude-wise, outlook-wise, its punk, always punk. I wouldn't be here if it wasn't for punk rock, guaranteed.

3. What do you consider to be the biggest obstacle or challenge for an independent artist right now?

There are so many...money is a big one, there's so little around. Getting people to listen, it's so hard to do that without record company infrastructure / money like radio promotion, press people, etc. And I'm terrible at creating social media "content."

4. What NC artists/bands are you currently listening to?

I found some great local releases recently! Max Lane, Le Weekend, Secret Monkey Weekend, Matt Southern...lots of great stuff and I'm sure I'm forgetting some. Severed Fingers are my fave, Hearts Gone South from Asheville are really great, Hot Brains, etc. I really love this band from the mountains of NC called Idle County, they're absolutely incredible.

5. What advice would you give to younger, local artists just beginning to create and share their music?

I truly, 100% believe that it's really important to keep creating art. For the people making it, and for the world. So, keep going. I mean...don't do it for the money. Ha!

6. Is there a particular upcoming NC show or event you’d like to promote?

We’ll be at Haw River Ballroom in Saxapahaw for their “Saturdays in Saxapahaw” series on August 8th. And we’re back at the Thirsty Beaver Saloon in Charlotte on August 9th.

Follow John Howie Jr. on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/johnhowiejr/.