He strutted into rockabilly fans’ consciousness with hit singles in the ‘80s as a bassist for the Stray Cats and now Lee Rocker will rock his hometown as a guest artist with the Laguna Concert Band.
The band’s musical director, Ed Peterson, anticipates a full house at the Laguna Playhouse on Feb. 22 and 23, the band’s first double concert, playing the same material both days.
A double bass player, singer, songwriter and Laguna Beach resident, Rocker has been making music for more than three decades. The Cats sold roughly 100 million albums, 23 of which went gold and platinum. Rocker was honored locally with a visionary Award by the Laguna Beach Arts Alliance in 2011.
Concert audiences can expect songs popularized by Dean Martin, classical offerings and six special arrangements including a composition by Rocker as well as songs by Elvis Presley and Buddy Holly that spotlight Rocker and guitarist Buzz Campbell. Gershwin and Shostakovich will be part of the presentations along with vocals by Linda Hughes.
“We are offering something for everyone, which we do very well,” said Peterson. “I am hoping for a sold-out house both times.”
The Laguna Concert Band typically performs jazz, swing and big band charts. The upcoming concerts will include what Peterson calls a “crazy mix” involving the entire 70-musician roster. “We will fill up the Playhouse stage offering a wide range of music,” he promised.
Lee Rocker & The Laguna Concert Band, Feb. 22, 7:30 p.m & Feb.23, 3 p.m. Laguna Playhouse, 606 Laguna Canyon Rd. (949) 497-2787 www.lagunaplayhouse.com
[…] the sell-out success of last year’s first performance, Rocker and the concert band decided to team up again. “Last year was so much fun, I am looking […]