Ever since 2010, when Gary Clark Jr. wowed audiences with electrifying live sets everywhere from the Crossroads Festival to Hollywood’s historic Hotel Café, his modus operandi has remained crystal clear: “I listen to everything … so I want to play everything.” The revelation that is the Austin-born virtuoso guitarist, vocalist and songwriter finds him just as much an amalgamation of his myriad influences and inspirations. Anyone who gravitated towards Clark’s, 2011’s “Bright Lights” EP, heard both the evolution of rock and roll and a savior of blues. The following year’s full-length debut, “Blak And Blu,” illuminated Clark’s vast spectrum — “Please Come Home” is reminiscent of Smokey Robinson, while “Ain’t Messin’ Around” recalls Sly and the Family Stone. 2014’s double disc” Gary Clark Jr – Live” projected Clark into 3D by adding palpable dimension and transcendent power — songs soared and drifted from the epic, psychedelic-blues of “When My Train Comes In” to his anthemic, hip-hop, rock-crunch calling card, “Bright Lights,” all the way down to the deep, dark, muddy water of “When The Sun Goes Down.”
After spending five years transforming audiences from the California desert to the London metropolis, acquiring fans like Barack Obama, Keith Richards, Alicia Keys and Beyoncé along the way, the 6-foot-4 Texan needed to spread his musical wings and spectrum hues wider. This exhibition was Clark’s second full-length worldwide album, “The Story of Sonny Boy Slim,” which was released in September 2015. What this body of work accomplishes that its predecessors hadn’t is spotlight Gary Clark Jr., the artist first — as producer, singer-songwriter — and string master second. His textured voice and eyes-wide writing hug listeners in with a disregard for time period other than the future.
Assigned seating events require tickets for all patrons, including infants and toddlers. No re-entry allowed. Seats are provided.
Events are subject to change without notice.
The Freeman Stage at Bayside is a program of the Joshua M. Freeman Foundation, a fundraising 501(c)3 nonprofit arts organization. Though located within Bayside, The Freeman Stage is not a community amenity and is unable to offer special privileges or access to Bayside residents, members or guests. The Joshua M. Freeman Foundation is a grateful partner but separate entity from the Carl M. Freeman Companies and the Bayside Resort Golf Club.
