Craig Paddock is a singer, guitarist, and songwriter who was born and raised in America’s most musically historical city, New Orleans, Louisiana. But in a city where learning how to play an instrument takes precedence over learning how to ride a bike, it’s sometimes hard to distinguish oneself as a musician, especially if you play a genre other than jazz. Despite the odds, Craig Paddock has been able to hone his undeniably soulful voice and songwriting style to do just that. Likened to Bono in vocal range, and Otis Redding in style, Craig gives new meaning to the term “Blue Eyed Soul.” His guitar playing and songwriting skills reveal influences that range from Led Zeppelin to Incubus, and The Funky Meters to Jeff Buckley. In short, Craig presents a versatile repertoire, but there is always a flare for funk, a heavy dose of rock, and a whole heap of soul mixed in his music.
Though he may not play jazz, Craig channels similar emotions that are often found in the music of New Orleans- emotions of deep sadness and despair, overcome by a sense of hope and an unquenchable appetite for “Le Bon Temps.” Craig’s music, lyrics, and singing style reveal the vibrant and resilient spirit of New Orleans that was the inspiration of so many New Orleans artists before him, and still exists now even after the devastation of Katrina. Craig’s profound spirituality is also evident in his music. However, if one wanted to pinpoint Craig’s most standout quality, simply stated it would be this: Craig can saang!
Craig has achieved numerous professional accomplishments in his young life as a musician. Most notably, Craig has had the privilege of opening for bands like Incubus, Jack Johnson, The Funky Meters, The Roots, Better Than Ezra, and Lifehouse. He has spent over 6 years on the road polishing his ability to put on a stellar performance both with his former band Ellipsis and as a solo artist. There are over 50 professional recordings of his work in existence. He was recently asked to be the focus of an ABC show about creating a star- an opportunity he decided to forgo to pursue a more organic road to musical success.
While he has vowed never to deny his New Orleans roots, Craig seeks to spend some time in Los Angeles in order work with major writers and producers. No matter where his journey takes him, Craig plans to keep writing and recording, and creating the music he loves.
Hey Craig! Great show at The Parish! I have some pics up on my page from then if you want to check them out! Love to hear what you think! You are more than welcome to any if you like!
Me & my sister shall be visiting the wonderful city of New Orleans the last week of august and i have decided that you are gonna book another show at the neutral ground while we are there. I'll give you money :)
Hey Craig, how are you guys? I am good and coming home for mardi gras, hoping to see you. I like the song sunshine a lot and can't wait to share with you some of the songs I have been working on. Take care and give Tori my kisses, Sarah
I'm really feeling "Sunshine" and "Poor in Spirit". Plenty of soul... Keep it coming brother and God Bless. -Andrew (from the Chimes St. Ellipsis gigs)
CD Release show Tue Jan 29th at One-Eyed Jack's. Show at 10pm. New songs, new band, special guests.
Also tune in WWOZ that same day at 330pm for songs and an interview; and KTUL around 2pm.
Hey! Just stopped in tosay hi and I have some cool new pics on my myspace from italy. Jessica(my leader) got some pretty good ones. Hope you had a great christmas. Hope to talk to you soon.
