PARADISE FOUND THE JAMIE MCLEAN BAND’S SONIC ODYSSEY

BY GABRIELLA DICENZO

Imagine that sweet sound of bluesy rock ‘n’ roll infused with a raw energy, streamlining an infectious groove that spreads throughout the crowd. Captivating audiences across the world from Madison Square Garden to Japan’s Fuji Rock, the Jamie McLean Band makes their way to Big Sky this summer, set to perform at the PBR after party on July 21. Founded by Jamie McLean, former member of the Dirty Dozen Brass Band, the band is ready to bring their energy to the Big Sky Events Arena for their fans.

“Bring your dancing shoes,” McLean said. “We’re definitely going to get the crowd moving and shaking.”

Before forming the Jamie McLean Band, McLean honed his skills with the Dirty Dozen Brass Band, a group from New Orleans, LA. However, after Hurricane Katrina, he felt a strong desire to create and release his own original music. Stepping away from New Orleans and the Dirty Dozen, McLean embarked on a new journey with the Jamie McLean Band, touring, recording and releasing their unique blend of bluesy, rootsy rock ‘n’ roll. Influenced by icons such as Ray Charles, Sam Cooke, Aretha Franklin, as well as modern acts like Lukas Nelson and Dawes, their music is an enthralling fusion of classic and contemporary styles.

Jamie McLean Band’s association to Big Sky PBR started by a chance encounter with a fan during a tour with Dickey Betts from the

Allman Brothers. Recognizing the band’s exceptional sound, the fan suggested they perform in Big Sky, Montana.

“The first person I was introduced to was Eric Ladd, who really loved the music and brought us out for PBR a number of years ago,” McLean said. “It was really all thanks to Eric Ladd and just believing in the music.”

Attendees at the Big Sky PBR event can anticipate an unforgettable experience during the band’s performance. Known for their ability to get the crowd moving, the band will bring their honest and soulful rock ‘n’ roll to the stage. Feeding off the audience’s energy, the Jamie McLean Band creates an electric atmosphere that is sure to make the weekend a celebration of epic proportions.

When it comes to preparing for a show of this magnitude, Jamie McLean likes to keep it simple: “I usually have a cold beer and try not to get nervous,” McLean said.

Recognizing the challenges of performing at a high elevation, they prioritize rest and hydration to maintain high energy levels throughout the weekend.

For the Jamie McLean Band, the essence of performing live lies in the interaction with the crowd. Witnessing smiling faces, fans singing along and seeing people have a good time are the most rewarding aspects of their live shows. McLean shares that, “Getting out there and seeing people enjoying themselves is really what makes it worthwhile for us.” The energy exchange between the band and the audience elevates the experience, he explains, making every performance memorable–it’s this connection and the shared joy of live music that drives the band’s passion for performing. Reflecting on past performances, the band has had its share of outstanding moments. One standout memory was when McLean performed the national anthem on guitar.

“Doing the national anthem in front of the Big Sky crowd was a true career highlight,” McLean said. “I’ll always remember that, and I’ll be doing it again this year so come early and come watch the guitar fireworks.”

Exciting projects lie on the horizon for the Jamie Mclean Band. They recently released a live album titled, “Live at the Bitter End” which showcases their talent on stage. With their home away from home being the Bitter End, New York City’s oldest rock club, the live album perfectly captures the band’s energy. Furthermore, they plan to return to the recording studio at the end of this year to work on a new record.

Live music at PBR plays a vital role in enhancing the experience for attendees. McLean expresses that music is the “common denominator.”

“It brings everyone together,” he said. “I can’t imagine life without music … Bringing everybody together to have a great time is a pretty beautiful thing.”

MADELINE HAWTHORNE A JOURNEY OF AUTHENTICITY, RESILIENCE AND MONTANA PRIDE

BY GABRIELLA DICENZO

Step into the world of Madeline Hawthorne: a talented artist whose musical journey has been shaped by her love for Montana and the power of introspection. As she takes the stage at Big Sky PBR’s Thursday night after party on July 20, she invites the audience to embark on a journey filled with rock and roll, dance music and tender ballads. With her roots firmly planted in Montana’s rich musical tapestry, Hawthorne’s performance promises to be an authentic experience made to leave a lasting impression.

Hawthorne’s journey as an artist traces back to her formative years; she discovered her passion for music at a young age. She grew up in New England into a musical family—her mother was a classical performer for many years and had attended the New England Conservatory of Music. At 16, she was gifted her first guitar, igniting a creative spark that would fuel her artistic endeavors. Influenced by iconic artists such as Joni Mitchell, Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, and Lynyrd Skynyrd, Hawthorne moved to Montana at 18 years old, ready to display her passion to the world.

The core of Hawthorne’s artistry lies in capturing the essence of life’s moments. Her lyrics often reflect her personal experiences

“A lot of it is just in the moment,” Hawthorne said. “Once I take the time to open my notebook and start writing, I think about what’s happened to me recently or in the world around me.”

Her latest album, Boots, written during the pandemic, dives into self-reflection, regrets and the process of self-affirmation. She describes how her songs serve as a therapeutic outlet, allowing her to navigate through the challenges and uncertainties of life through songwriting.

Hawthorne’s excitement for PBR is palpable, considering this event as a milestone in her musical journey. Having played in Big Sky as a solo artist prior, Hawthorne is eager to present her performance with her band this year, bringing an energetic blend of rock, dance, and poignant ballads to the audience.

“Every performance, I try to give it everything I’ve got, so I hope people dance, laugh, smile, cry and just walk away feeling good. That’s our job,” said Hawthorne.

Performing at PBR aligns perfectly with Hawthorne’s artistic vision and goals. Her music carries messages of resilience, self-belief and the pursuit of dreams against all odds. As a young woman in the music industry, Hawthorne embraces the challenges that she has faced, transforming them into empowering messages of hope.

Having spent a significant portion of her career in Bozeman, Montana, Hawthorne draws inspiration from the local community and the unique landscape that surrounds her. Her songwriting is shaped by the challenges and triumphs of being a musician in Montana, a place where breaking into the national music scene can be demanding.

My hope is to always stay here, call Montana my home and show folks you can make it as a Montana artist,” Hawthorne said.

Despite challenges and hurdles, Hawthorne remains dedicated to showcasing the talent and resilience of Montana artists, encouraging others to pursue their dreams.

“I try to make my music less about pointing fingers and more about being an uplifting message of believing in yourself even if it feels like all of the odds are stacked against you,” Hawthorne said. “If you don't have all the answers, or if you don't have a roadmap–still follow your dreams, chase your passion and give it everything you’ve got.”