We were lucky to catch up with Mark Schimick recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Mark thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Let’s kick things off with your mission – what is it and what’s the story behind why it’s your mission?

I’ve been fortunate enough to make a living playing bluegrass music and beyond with personal friends, and haven’t yet gone to make it big yet. That’s not out of the question, it’s just that I’m thankful to be able to play on my own terms.

Mark, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

Started in 1996 on mandolin, but played drum kit since 1988 and piano since 1979. First touring band was Sassagrass with Billy Constable in late 1997. Larry Keel from August 2000-2014. Josh Daniel/ Mark Schimick Project out if Charlotte through 2018, then Songs From the Road Band went full time by the end of 2018 (started as a side project in 2002). I play mandolin and sing lead n harmony for a living, but also play drum kit in Mud Tea, a 60s/70s style power trio. Also flatpick bluegrass guitar and play a little claw hammer banjo and old-time fiddle.

We’d love to hear about how you met your business partner.

My touring career started when my close friends and I met Billy Constable at a festival in western NC (Marion, NC). We were learning from 70 yr olds whom he knew when they were still in their 40s. When we played, it was an immediate band with the same rhythm pocket! When I met Larry Keel in 1997,, our birthdays are two days apart and we played the first time with the same intensity.
Meeting Charles Humphrey with So gs From the Road Band was an all night hang laughing and playing music, also around this time in 1999. We kept the fun factor even while touring the whole country.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

There are multiple times in a musical career that seem like quitting is necessary. After playing with Larry for 14 years, I had no idea what was next in any form, music or career change. That’s tough while being a parent! I just happened to have two solo shows in the next 3 days, and then started up with Josh Daniel every week for the next 3 years! We had no idea!

Contact Info:

• Website: www.songsfromtheroadband.com.
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/mudteaband