The Backtrack Blues Band, led by Charles “Chuck” Ross, also known as Sonny Charles, will perform at the Valerie Theatre in Inverness on May 31 at 7 p.m. The band, founded in 1980, is celebrating 45 years of playing original music.
Ross, a renaissance man with a background as a lawyer, nightclub owner, and real estate investor, attributes the band’s longevity to “persistence.” He notes that “blues doesn’t pay much,” so having a day job allowed him to be experimental with his music. The band plays its own compositions, with Ross writing over 30 of them. Lead guitarist and vocalist Kid Royal also contributes songs.
Ross grew up in North Carolina, where he was influenced by rock ‘n’ roll bands like Canned Heat, The Doors, and Creedence Clearwater Revival. However, it was a record by blues harmonica player Sonny Boy Williamson that had a profound impact on him. “It was an epiphany,” Ross said. The band’s music is a testament to their dedication to the blues genre.
The Backtrack Blues Band’s performance at the Valerie Theatre is a rare opportunity for locals to experience live blues music. The Valerie Theatre is a popular venue in Inverness, Citrus County, known for hosting various performances and events.
Originally reported by Citrus County Chronicle – Inverness
Sources: Citrus County Chronicle – Inverness
