On day three of this year’s Music Interview Marathon, we introduce you to American rock n’ roll band The Rockit King, whose favourite thing is their “creative outlet”.
Band Name: The Rockit King
Members (name & role): Jes Beveridge (Vocals), Anthony Mannino (Guitar), Dan Cox (Bass) & Daine Hammerle (Drums)
Genre: Rock ‘N’ Roll
Founded: November 2001
Originated From: Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA
Discography: Day Late & a Dollar Short (LP), Saddle Up (LP), Truth Will Set You Free (LP), Fourth Turning (LP) & Take My Hand (Single)
How would you describe your music?
Rockit King plays Michigan rock ‘n’ roll. Lots of guitars, lots of vocal harmonies, and four-on-the-floor rock music.
What is your musical creative process like?
It’s fun. It works in a couple of different ways. Either Anthony and JB work up a tune or the band jam out a tune at rehearsal. Everyone involved respects the creative process and creative tension write large.
How did the band form?
The Rockit King formed as a west Michigan supergroup of sorts. Everyone was in other bands but got together with the specific purpose to start a ’70s guitar/rock band. A literal cross between Thin Lizzy and Boston. It evolved naturally from there.
Who influenced you within the music industry?
ZZ Top, Van Halen, Pantera, Clutch…All things 70’s & 90’s.
Have you performed live much and what was your favourite gig to play at?
Sure. It usually depends on whom we’re playing with (opening for). We remember David Lee Roth being super cool. Same with REO Speedwagon and Bad Company. We’ve played a lot of cool gigs over the last twenty years.
What is the best thing about being in a band?
We would say it’s the creative outlet.
What’s the biggest problem you’ve had to overcome so far as a musician(s)?
The Covid pandemic was/is a bit of a pickle.
What plans have you got coming up this year?
Currently, we’re pushing Take My Hand, the latest single. We’ll push another tune off of the Fourth Turningalbum. After that, we were scheduled to get back into the studio to record a couple of songs for a 7” that’s due to release in April 2022.
What is your ultimate dream as a band?
To play bigger gigs and make better albums.
You can find out more about The Rockit King by following them on Facebook and Instagram.
If you’re in a band or a musician and would like to appear on this blog, please contact me and I’ll forward you an interview template.
Also, check out my other Music Interview roundups from 2018, 2019, 2020 & 2021.
