Conversations with Aaron Chapman

Today we’d like to introduce you to Aaron Chapman.

Aaron, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Started out at Ronny Sax blues jams at LA/Orange County area where I met Benton Asbury/ bass player. Benton was already playing with Dr. Toots big band. From there the band 3rd Degree Blues was formed with the purpose of playing traditional blues music. We played at clubs and festivals with different artists in the Southern California area and beyond. This evolution took place over the last 25 years and literally thousands of gigs and performances at the highest level. The historical value of the blues has always been of utmost importance with the band. Through the years we have had numerous outstanding players join the band. especially drummers. Our current keyboard player, Harrison “Hatch” Manell joined the band in the year 2000. He was introduced by a mutual friend who worked at the US post office, and we’ve been playing together ever since.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It’s mostly been a smooth road, but like most bands, there have been some challenges with personal and health issues. There have been somewhat members that can be called “Divas” that wanted to do their own thing instead of being a team player. One instance included being kicked out of a club for singing lyrics that were true to the original song whose customer misunderstood the words and found them to be offensive even though they weren’t. I’d say health issues have played a significant roll more than anything. When a band accepts a gig, it means an iron clad commitment to perform. If a last-minute call comes in from one of the band members who suddenly can’t make it, I have had to make a mad scramble to fill the suddenly vacant spot.
Another issue that comes up occasionally is getting paid, sometimes having to wait days or even weeks after a performance.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Being born into blues then singing and performing Blues music at its highest level and growing up around prominent artists who greatly influenced generations of music. I have written several original blues tunes that reflect my experiences in society. I realize that blues music influences many other types of music that has become popular today which brings it back full circle. I grew up in Chicago where juke joints and reggae clubs flourished. I was able to meet and greet and play with some of the best in the business. I/we have been able to share the stage with performers such as Robert Cray and Leon Russell. What sets me apart is I am able to play the music I was born into.

Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
Every time we step out the door on the way to a stage there are risks. The drive, to accommodations to getting paid and running into challenging people along the way.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.thirddegreeblues.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/3rddegreeblues?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/3rddegreebluze
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=3rd+degree+blues+band
• Soundcloud: https://on.soundcloud.com/Z6fShyQv0Ju3INUPoe