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"Big" Earl Matthews was born in Modesto California with a passion to sing. Introduced to the blues when he was a teenager by a close friend he attended his first blues show at 19, Tommy Castro at the Sonora Blues for Aids show in 1996, and was hooked. A year later, Earl migrated north to live in Humboldt County where he and a friend formed his first band of the same name. The band played in and around Eureka from 2001 to 2006. With influences such as blues greats: Junior Wells, Buddy Guy, Magic Slim and the Tear Drops, Taj Mahal, Robert Cray, Keb Mo, Howlin Wolf, and Big Mama Thornton, there was never a dull moment. In late 2006, Earl moved back to his hometown and hooked up with long-time Modesto musicians: Jason Finley (guitar), Eli Lester (guitar), Tom Selear (drums), and Randy Niemann (bass). Big Earl and The Cryin' Shame has a steady and consistent schedule and enjoys an enthusiastic response up and down Northern California. The band is known for their original, simple, infectious grooves; drawing from traditional blues, rock and R&B. The result is a unique and innovative sound that fits seamlessly with Big Earl's soulful voice. Audiences often respond by immediately hitting the dance floor, or creating one on-the-fly. Staying true to the mission of having a good time, this band provides a positive, upbeat, and energetic stage presence that encourages and encompasses the audience. The band has won the 2009 MAMA (Modesto Area Music Award) for "Best Blues Band" and plan on writing more original material, recording a full length album, and bringing the Blues to a stage near you. "Everybody Loves The Blues, Some People Just Don't Know It Yet" - Big Earl Matthews