Exploring Life & Business with Carly Stock of FULL-THROTTLE FUNK

Today we’d like to introduce you to Carly Stock.

Hi Carly, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My story really began at the age of 12 when I picked up the saxophone. I grew up in Los Angeles and began gigging professionally when I was 14. I took lessons, attended the Colburn School of Music, and was in every school band I could fit into my schedule–I completely immersed myself. I went on to study jazz saxophone at the University of North Texas (23′) where I played in the Grammy-nominated One O’Clock Lab Band.
Upon graduating, I moved back to Los Angeles, auditioned for Phat Cat Swinger, “Hollywood’s hottest little-big band,” got the alto saxophone spot, and hit the road for 43 days to perform 25 shows across the country. Since then, I have toured and gigged with multiple other bands, perform frequently in Disney’s California Adventure Park, and have collaborated with artists such as Jens Lindemann (Canadian Brass), Adrian Younge (Jazz Is Dead), Olivia Kuper Harris (The Voice), Blake Lewis (American Idol), Matt Cattingub, and Allison Miller. I was lucky to have been highlighted by many media outlets, including NPR’s World Cafe and NBC News, and was a featured artist on the Everything Saxophone Podcast, as well as Instagram video collaborations with Conn-Selmer USA.
My current day-to-day varies wildly; for example, just this past week, I rehearsed for Knott’s Scary Farm with Marquis and the Rhythm Howlers on Friday, drove to Vegas for a gig with Phat Cat Swinger on Saturday/Sunday, gave private lessons on Monday, tour managed for Phat Cat throughout the week, and tomorrow I have an audition for the Mambokats Orchestra. But recently, all of my spare time has been spent working on my brand new band, FULL-THROTTLE FUNK. We just had our first gig in North Hollywood last week, and it was a huge success! I just posted our performance videos on Youtube this morning, and I am excited to continue making a name for us around town.

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?
The largest challenge I have faced is being a woman in a male-dominated music, and especially jazz, world. I have been straight-up denied auditions because of my gender, not to mention the consistent sexual harassment from colleagues, patrons, and bandleaders. However, I have built a strong support system of other musicians, colleagues, friends, and family who I can rely on, and to vouch for me if necessary. In fact, I sometimes even enjoy being one of the only female saxophonists making a name for herself in Los Angeles-it sets me apart.

Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
A little country, a little funky, and a LOT of fun, FULL-THROTTLE FUNK promises a high-energy performance perfect for any party, outdoor fair/event, festival stage, and more. FULL-THROTTLE FUNK’s original arrangements of classics emphasize groove and improvisation that truly make each band member shine. Our unique instrumentation of two saxophonists/vocalists, guitar, bass, and drums (5-piece band) is sure to leave guests with something to talk about!
Bandleader/saxophonist/vocalist and Los Angeles native Carly Stock has been performing professionally since she was 14, and has extensive touring experience across the United States. Carly can be found performing at amusement parks like Disneyland and Dollywood (Nashville, TN), large theaters such as the Redlands Bowl, historic venues like Cicada Club (DTLA) or Lou Lous (San. Diego), and everywhere in between. FULL-THROTTLE FUNK is the perfect blend of funky grooves she grew up playing, and country western/Americana flair inspired by her time living in Texas and touring cross-country with her bandmates.
FULL-THROTTLE FUNK’s debut performance at Lawless Beer in North Hollywood for Afterglow Maker’s Market was an instant hit! Our band brought the funk, swagger, and energy that kept market-goers grooving all night long. Email [email protected] or visit us on GigSalad to book.

Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
Los Angeles is full of possibilities. I used to think “oh, I can’t do that,” or “I’m not good enough for x, y, or z,” but living in LA has shown me that if you work hard, the sky really is the limit. I love meeting different kinds of people, in and out of the music industry, and I enjoy living somewhere where my day-to-day is whatever I want it to be.

LA parking is horrendous. Other than that I love my city.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.gigsalad.com/full-throttle_funk_long_beach
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fullthrottlefunk/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@FULLTHROTTLEFUNK
• Other: https://carlystock.com

Image Credits
1. Steve Meier
2. Matt Valencia