Blue Nation are an indie/blues driven outfit hailing from Birmingham's vibrant music scene, fronted by the powerful vocals of Neil Murdoch and an exquisite and talented backline supplied by Jon Hooker and Ade Derbyshire.
Born out of the desire to bring people something they can hang onto (musically) - With heart pounding vocals, infectious melodies and sharp riffs Blue Nation have set themselves high standards.
Neil is the main songwriter, guitarist and singer, and has enigmatic stage presence with vocals to match! Neil specialises in the truth when it comes to song writing. With love, life, hurt and sorrow all wound up and created in Blue Nation's songs. During a sound check 'Big Mick' (sound engineer for Metallica) said 'where the F**kin Hell did that skinny kid get that great voice from?!' - We still dont know and neither does he!
Having been in bands before he set about finding the perfect blend of musicians. Soon Neil found who he was looking for and they formed Blue Nation.
Jon definitely falls in to the category - If you're good enough you are old enough. Drumming is in Jon's blood and music plays a major part in his life. He has a degree in contemporary popular music which he gained from The Academy of Contemporary Music in Guildford. His drumming style oozes funk, soul and downright dirty blues. Jon has become the back bone of Blue Nation.
Ade is a rare breed in which he is a lead bass guitarist. Razor sharp bass riffs flow effortlessly from him and drive Blue Nation forward with a unique sound and style. In every great band there has to be a great partnership with the drums and bass - Ade and Jon are second to none. Couple this with Ades bass work in harmony with Neils guitar work and you have the Blue Nation sound.
Their gig and recording experience is extensive, with over 250 gigs that include many major cities in the UK and two acoustic tours of NYC, focused around Greenwich Village and Manhattan. They are also experienced in live and studio sessions with major radio stations, as well as the usual festival circuit.
Music Press Release
Blue Nation use rock, blues, indie, and a hint of Mod in creating a sound that doesn’t fit neatly into a genre and is all the more memorable for it. Their songs are delivered by three accomplished musicians, fronted with stunning vocals. All backed up with experience and stage presence.
