Featured Live Music Artist of the Week - BDU (Big D Unplugged)

BDU
Big D Unplugged
Daniel Phillips

People know him by all those names, and also as a member of Zero Kings, when he is Big D Plugged-In.  Big D Unplugged is just that - an unplugged acoustic set of some of the greatest music ever produced.  Big D rocks classics from the 50s to the 2010s - if it is rock & roll, it's most likely in his repertoire.  And if not, he can learn it (I've seen him learn a song on the spot many times).  Big D is a true "musician", a person who understands music and can interpret a song, mimic a song, and add to a song.  He just doesn't memorize the notes.  Big D is able to improvise with the best of them and learn new songs/song variations on a moment's notice - which anybody who has been to The Fest For Beatles Fans can attest to.

The The Fest, Big D is known for lots of things - most notably his kindness to others.  Big D embodies the entire "peace and love" vibe of The Fest, friends with everybody, and always willing to help out whenever possible.

The other things Big D are known for :

Seen on stage often during the Battle of The Beatle Bands and the poorly-named Beatles Sound-alike Contest.  If somebody needs a guitar accompaniment, Big D's the man!  

Seen on stage as one of the instrumentalists for Danny Donuts' nightly Fest salute videos/routines.

And, of course, the biggest and best part of all - THE OVERNIGHTS!  Big D, along with 10-20-30-40 of his closest Fest Friends (and members of Liverpool) spent the evening, into the wee hours of the morning (even to sunrise) jamming to Beatles song after Beatles song after Beatles song - with some other appropriate 60s/70s songs peppered throughout the evening.

Ok - so now we know about his Fest impacts.  But what else?  Well, Big D Unplugged can be seen/heard throughout the Greater Vincennes Area in West/Central Indiana.  Big D's "home" is Cutter's Way in Vincennes, but he can also be spotted at Old Town Tavern and other establishments in that region.  And sometimes as far west as Iowa and as far north as Rosemont, IL (and places elsewhere as well).  One night each month at Cutter's Way, Big D hosts "Beatlenight".  I don't remember the exact number of "Beatlenights" but it's over 100.  On those nights, it is strictly Beatles and Beatle solo music (and some Beatle-written songs too).  Other nights, it's rock & roll on random play!

Big D's instrument of choice is the 12-string acoustic (though he can play 6-string and electric just as well).  Now, many people play 12-string, some play it just like a 6-string, some play it well, and some have mastered it.  Big D has mastered it.  When playing, regardless of the song being played, listeners can clearly hear each of the 12-strings ring out and what an amazing full-tone it brings to a song - and also adds some additional touches that can not be done on a 6-string.  Big D uses all 12-strings on a 12-string!  And that is quite amazing to hear (and to watch)!

In addition to playing guitar, Big D also sings.  This guy is a living jukebox, knowing the lyrics (and music) to a plethora of rock & roll hits.  

Big D's love of music and kindness are what really show through in his performances.  In jam sessions, he never showboats and always allows people - of all skill levels - to participate and shine.  He is always willing to provide advice and input when asked, and has always been known to encourage beginners and novices.  I still remember him encouraging me when I first started, and invited me to sit in when he jammed with members of the Quarrymen.  I couldn't keep up then (probably still can't) - but Big D was there with the support and encouragement.

Not only is Big D a great musician - he's a great person.

If you are in the Vincennes area - you MUST catch one of his shows!!!