We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Legato White. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Legato below.
Legato, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.
Our service project, if you will, began organically during the height of the pandemic in 2020. In an effort to get out of the house for a bit during quarantine, 2 of our bandmates decided to roam the streets of their Tower Grove South neighborhood and play their instruments. A neighbor recorded them playing “Stand By Me”, posted it on Twitter and it went viral – amassing millions of views. That’s when we decided to put the entire band together and go out neighborhood by neighborhood throughout St Louis and spread joy through music. It warmed our hearts to be able to touch so many lives during such difficult time. The power of music was evident and therapeutic for them as well as for us.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers
We are a New Orleans style “Second Line” Brass Band. This rhythmic and boisterous style of party/celebration music has it’s roots in African musical traditions. The term “Second Line” refers to people following the band down the street. The band is the First line, the crowd is the Second Line! From weddings, to home-goings to corporate events to anniversaries to birthdays to music venues big and small – “The Red and Black Brass Band lifts spirits, makes bodies move and helps to create an atmosphere of letting your hair down and having a good time! We pride ourselves in Second Line” music embodies the spirit of old french New Orleans’ adage “Laissez les bon temps rouler! or “Let the good times roll!”
For inquiries, email us at [email protected]
We would love to bring a New Orleans Mardi Gras feel to help celebrate your special occasion!
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
One of the most unique things about our band is that all eight of us are fraternity brothers in Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia Fraternity of America, Inc. – a Music Fraternity for Men. We represent different chapters from universities across the country. Fate has brought us all to St Louis for this purpose. Our goal of being an international performing/recording act is fueled by the objectives of our fraternity – advancing music in America and beyond and pouring out our souls to win the world to harmony.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
The most rewarding aspect of being an artist is being able to deeply connect with people you’ve never met and leaving a positive impression on them.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/redandblackbrassband
- Instagram: @redandblackbrassband
- Facebook: Red and Black Brass Band
- Twitter: @redandblackbb
Image Credits
Phillip Haymer Photography