Billy Bob Thornton and The Boxmasters speak with WIFR before Rockford show
Billy Bob Thornton, a renowned actor and musician, along with his band The Boxmasters, are gearing up to perform in Rockford as part of their tour promoting their latest album, “Pepper Tree Hill.” The concert is scheduled for Friday, September 19 at Hard Rock Live on East State Street, with the doors opening at 7 p.m. This performance is exclusively for attendees who are 21 years of age or older.
Formed in 2006 by Thornton and Grammy Award-winning recording engineer J.D. Andrew, The Boxmasters set out to blend various musical styles that they enjoyed, including Rock and Roll, blues, and influences from the British Invasion. According to Andrew, the initial intention was simply to record some songs without any plans of forming a band. Over the years, the band has seen members come and go, allowing them to collaborate with different artists and infuse unique creativity into their music.
Despite his successful acting career, which has earned him accolades such as a Golden Globe and Academy Awards, Thornton has managed to seamlessly balance both acting and music endeavors. He points out that his passion for music dates back to his teenage years, with music always being his first love. With close to two decades of The Boxmasters’ existence, Thornton emphasizes how the band’s sound has organically evolved to truly represent who they are as a loud rock and roll ensemble. He reflects on how their early experimentation with different musical styles eventually led them back to their authentic sound, resonating with a specific audience.
Reflecting on the recording process, Andrew highlights the band’s commitment to a raw and organic approach. He mentions that they play all the instruments and sing all the songs themselves, similar to how their musical influences operated. The duo aims to maintain an intimate and authentic recording experience, with Thornton playing the drums and Andrew on the guitar, capturing their musical essence in its purest form.
As they gear up for their Rockford performance, Thornton and Andrew promise an engaging and interactive show, particularly appealing to fans of Cheap Trick. They enjoy sharing the stories behind their songs with the audience, fostering a deeper connection with their listeners. “Pepper Tree Hill” marks the band’s 19th release, with tickets having been available for purchase since May through Ticketmaster.
In conclusion, Billy Bob Thornton and The Boxmasters are poised to deliver a dynamic and memorable performance in Rockford, showcasing their distinctive blend of music styles and their unwavering passion for authentic rock and roll.