Craig Woolard is proud of his roots. The ‘Soul Man of Beach Music’ returns to his hometown of Washington to entertain crowds at the Summer Festival tonight.
“When I have the privilege of playing in Washington, I get that engulfing feeling of nostalgia – looking at all the things I used to see when I was a kid. I fondly remember Carver’s Drive-In, Camp Leach, Roanoke Christian Service Camp and lots of other things. I’ll go to the river I grew up a block and a half from and get that faraway look in my eyes,” said Woolard.
The Craig Woolard Band formed in 2004 to popular acclaim, multiple hits and countless awards. The band has a devoted group of followers who enjoy the versatile mix of music that ranges from rhythm and blues, rock, Motown and classic beach music hits.
“Expect to hear some of the songs that were popular when I was a kid,” said Woolard. “We select tunes that will please everyone – some rock and roll, some Journey, soul, blues and, believe it or not, even a song by Pink!”
Woolard is excited about the performance, saying, “I wouldn’t trade for anything the chance to see old friends and some of the guys I first played music with that are still in Washington.”
The front man for the band that carries his name takes his profession seriously.
“Being on stage, I have moments … that I can’t believe that I get to do this for a living; until I get into the car after the gig and realize I have a long drive home,” Woolard joked.
“It’s a big responsibility on one hand; on the other, it’s like a goal I have to hit every night, to make people remember me and this band,” Woolard said.
“We have some amazing musicians in this band, even better than you’ve heard before,” he added.
Key members of the group are Adam Barber on drums. Barber is a graduate of the Percussion Institute of Technology, Los Angeles.
“He charts everything, which is rare for a drummer,” said Woolard.
Greg Watson, formerly with the Catalinas, plays “rock solid” bass. Andy Swindell plays keyboard and has family ties to Washington. Don Jordan, formerly of The Embers, plays guitar. On horns, Keith Stone used to play with The Shakers and The Kayes, and Jebby White is featured on trombone.
“And the man we couldn’t do without is Allan Wentz, our sound technician,” said Woolard.
Woolard is excited to return home, “I love my mama, Betty Woolard,” he wants folks to know. “I’m looking forward to seeing her, my friends and eating some Bill’s Hot Dogs!”
Spoken like a true Washingtonian.
The Craig Woolard Band performs tonight from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. on the main stage next to Washington’s waterfront.