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Darren Watson is New Zealands' finest practitioner of the blues - a singer and guitarist who can give you goosebumps with the passion and intensity of his playing. He's also an original songwriter of rare skill and imagination.
With his third solo offering, South Pacific Soul, Watson brings all of his talents under the one roof. Released in late 2005 and comprised entirely of original tunes, the album ranges from tough blues to deep soul, all tinged with a flavour of the South Pacific. The album finds Darren backed by a handpicked band of top Kiwi musicians, including drummer Darren Mathiassen (Hollie Smith, ex-Trinity Roots), keyboardists Chris Yeabsley (Twinset) and Alan Norman (The Warratahs) and bassist Elliotte Fuimaono (Southside Of Bombay).
Darren has shared the bill with numerous international acts including legends like Koko Taylor, Robert Cray, George Thorogood, The Fabulous Thunderbirds, Dr. John, Keb Mo, Emmylou Harris, Billy Boy Arnold, Eric Burdon, and Joe Cocker. Along the way he has notched up a string of radio hits including Mind On My Sleeve and Another Man, both Watson originals.
By Nick Bollinger (NZ Listener, Radio NZ)
Awards & Nominations:
1990 NZ Music Awards - Most Promising Male Vocalist
1991 NZ Music Awards - Top Male Vocalist
1993 Wellington Music Awards - Best Live Act
1996 Aiwa Wellington Music Awards - Best Blues Artist
2003 NZ Music Awards - Best Roots Album 'King Size'
2009 International Songwriting Competition First Place for BLUES
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