Big Head Todd and the Monsters Mark Four Decades of Colorado Blues Rock
In 1993, the rock band Big Head Todd and the Monsters secured a significant paid performance at the Denver Zoo, which would mark the beginning of a remarkable journey through the music landscape for the group. It was during this event that they found camaraderie with Blues Traveler, a band led by John Popper, who imparted some valuable advice to Todd Park Mohr, the band’s frontman. Popper’s words struck a chord with Mohr, mentioning, “When you’re young, you don’t know how long you’re going to be around; you don’t realize what you’re getting into. But people are always going to want to see you play, and I’m always going to want to see you play.” These words have remained etched in Mohr’s memory, serving as a testament to the enduring friendships and connections established in the cutthroat music industry.
It is no easy feat to maintain a close bond spanning forty years in the music business, but Big Head Todd and the Monsters have managed to achieve this milestone. Despite witnessing Denver’s evolving landscape since their inception in 1986 at Columbine High School, core members Todd Park Mohr, Brian Nevin, and Rob Squires have kept the band’s signature energy and enthusiasm intact. Their remarkable resilience is evident even four decades into their career, a testament to their enduring passion and commitment to their craft. This unwavering dedication has seen them rise from relative obscurity to the pinnacle of success, with their third album, ‘Sister Sweetly,’ achieving platinum status and propelling them to national fame as they toured extensively across the United States.
A testament to their illustrious legacy is their long-standing association with the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre, a venue they have been gracing since the 1990s. To commemorate their fortieth anniversary, Big Head Todd and the Monsters will stage a grand celebration at the legendary venue on June 7 and 8. The lineup promises to be nothing short of spectacular, with the first show featuring opening acts Cheap Trick and Cracker, followed by a star-studded second show featuring the Warren Haynes Band and an unexpected surprise in the form of Bill Murray and His Brothers. The addition of Bill Murray, acclaimed actor and an avid fan of the band, would mark his debut performance at Red Rocks alongside his contemporary rock cover band, adding an exciting twist to the festivities.
Todd Park Mohr shared an anecdote about Murray’s affection for their music, recalling how the actor would listen to their songs while playing golf. This affinity culminated in a serendipitous encounter years ago, reinforcing Murray’s genuine admiration and respect for the band. The upcoming anniversary show at Red Rocks promises to be a historic event, blending masterful performances, nostalgic melodies, and a palpable sense of camaraderie that has defined Big Head Todd and the Monsters’ enduring career. As they embark on this momentous occasion, it is a fitting tribute to their remarkable journey from humble beginnings to becoming stalwarts of the music scene.