Court Alton from “Big Slick”

1. Welcome to Kick Acts, Court. Tell us a little about yourself.

I’m married to an awesome gal and have a pretty good kid who’s getting ready to turn 14 soon.  I work in finance industry during the day; have the last 10+ years. I’m 34 and have been playing music in the tri-state for over 15 years professionally.

2. You’re currently singing in a band called Big Slick. Tell us who’s in the band and how we can find you on-line and any shows that we can watch you.

The front of the Big Slick band are me and Brittany Bayley. The point of difference for this band is that the band members are selected before each show based upon the needs of the client. If the performance needs to be more blues & funk or rock & roll, the most appropriate musician is contracted specifically for that show. Because the pool of talent are all seasoned musicians and usually have worked with one another at some point in their career, they can jump in quickly and meld a great sound. The clients need drives the band, so the show is custom to each event.

Almost everything we have booked this year are private events with the exception of September 11th & 12th we’ll be playing a public show at Hoosiers Lounge in Casino Aztar.

On Line: www.bookbigslick.com
Email: bookbigslick@yahoo.com, courtalton@yahoo.com
Cell: 812-453-6795

3. You guys are more of a professional lounge band or corporate act then the standard “bar band” we usually see around here. What sets you apart from those type of bands?

The musicians do not have a long term commitment to a static band, they get to jam with a variety of other musicians, it stays fresh, and the overall attitude is professional and positive. And even better, this system works for the client as well because they get a customized show for their special event.

Many clients are repeat customers because they are able to provide input, such as song requests and have pre-planning meetings to discuss timelines and details. They become a part of the process which makes them feel valued. Sometimes, the full Big Slick band is too large for an event, in which case, Big Slick Entertainment, LLC musical entertainment booking agency will step in and find the appropriate performers such as soloists, acoustic acts, just piano, and anything else that the client needs.

4. How long have you been a musician? Tell us about some of your experiences.

I’ve been playing for almost 20 years. It’s been a lot of fun and I have had the opportunity to play with some very talented musicians over the years. Some of the area bands I have been a member include, Severed Ties, Tom Slick, Stompbox 40, Hoosier Daddy, and currently Big Slick.

5. Do you have a greatest gig story you’d like to share?

Since the concept of Big Slick came to life 4 years ago, every gig has been great! I have got to meet few national acts over the years too which was very cool!

6. How about the worst gig?

Tried to play through the flu once and had to call a friend in after the first set..that was quiet some time ago.

7. Do you have any other hobbies other than singing in the band?

I’m a Kentucky boy (transplant) so I hunt and fish quiet a bit. My son is at that age where I love involving him in these activities as well. I’m also a fan of NASCAR and try to go to a couple races every year, (that’s why this was late…I was in Talladega, Alabama when Kick Acts asked for the interview…thanks for being patient Chuck!) I’m also currently looking into clubs, events, and drives with fellow Corvette owners and enthusiasts.

8. Who are your musical heroes, and influences & why?

“Joe Cocker & Johnny Cash because they are awesome and we have very similar singing styles to my own”. Freddy King, Sam Cooke, James Brown, BB King – are all masters of R&B and blues, they are all simply amazing. (I really enjoy lots of funk and blues acts) Eddie Vedder for stage presence.

9. Do you have any advice for someone just getting started in playing music? Any pitfalls they should avoid?

Stay positive and keep a good reputation for being a true professional. The gigs aren’t going to fall into your lap, you have to market yourself and be ready to back up what you promise when you make that booking. Don’t be afraid to contact some of us that have been doing this for a while for some friendly advice…

10. # 10 is called “Shout it Loud”. It’s were you get to talk about whatever you want to talk about. So go ahead Court, and “SHOUT IT OUT LOUD”!

Shout it out loud, here goes.  I’d like to say thank you to some of the people who have helped make Big Slick a success over the years either in their continued support, friendship, and or musicianship:

Kathleen Alton
Brittany Bayley
Katie Proctor
Kris Proctor
Saundra Hadley
Matt Osborne
Rod Bennett
Matt Clark
Erick Scales
Glen Gore
Mike McKenney
Greg Minnette
Bob Green
Allen Van Hoosier
Darci Roberts
Mike Niles
Adam Siemers
Nick Hamilton

All you guys are great!  Also a big thank you goes out to all past and return clients for allowing us to bring joy into your event!

Bonus question: “The most entertaining gig you ever played”

I was playing in Jasper when two wedding parties — one Burgundy and the other Teal — came into the venue. The two different brides and their bridesmaids started dancing and having a great time! As the night progressed, they started doing shots together and the next thing you know, the brides are kissing each other at the bar. The grooms have different reactions…one groom is egging them on and the second groom gets mad and pushes one bride away from the other. Immediately, groom #1 sees this happen and pushes groom #2 to the ground and then it’s a mealy of burgundy against teal, groom against groom, and bride against bride. The place was a mess and there were many wardrobe malfunctions if you know what I mean…Quickly, the police arrived and we were asked to go on break. When we returned from break, the visual we encountered was priceless…the two brides are handcuffed sitting on a curb crying, with members of each wedding party sitting in police cars…one heck of a way to spend your wedding night…huh?