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When you first see us, you wouldn't think we're a band. But we are. And our music will get stuck in your heads if you come to see us live. Our shows are fun because you are fun. A brief history
It all started years ago. 7 years to be exact. A song called "All for You" by sister hazel was all the rage, and Mark Dube and Will Horne shared their mutual distaste for the overplayed hogwash by singing it after fourth grade cribbage games.
Years later, they joined forces to perform a three-song set to a three-person audience (well, maybe 13). Mark had crafted the name "Free Willy and the Whalers" and was eager to use it even though there was only technically one whaler at the time.
The Whalers picked up a drummer named Geoff Raywood thanks to a connection Will had, playing with Geoff in another band. The newly formed trio still lacked some conviction, so they looked to musical prodigy and friend of Will - Sean Green. Sean plays a mean keyboard. However, when the first show date for the quartet came around, Sean was nowhere to be found. Actually, he was found. At Market Basket. Working. Needless to say, he would not remain with the Whalers.
However, in attendence at that concert was the one and only Mike Onore. Attempting to sight-read chords to play with Elton John's "Your Song" proved to be a challenge as the paper fell off the music stand multiple times. That music may not have stuck, but Mike did. Those four went on to play the Live Waterfront show.
However, as the summer neared its end, The Whalers were forced to make some tough decisions. Geoff Raywood was heading off to college, meaning they were down a drummer. This problem was rectified by adding the multi-talented Jack Barry on Drumset. Also, Gerard Kennedy, who had played with Will in past band experiences, joined the team. Since Gerard was a master on bass, Mark stepped down from that position, only long enough to step back up to play saxophone. The first gig as that band, the benefit on September 15th, was a major success.
Change came yet again for Free Willy and the Whalers after their show at the Unitarian. Jack Barry retired, allowing Dylan Corbett to take his place on drums.
Their first public show as that band, the benefit on November 17th, was Free Willy and the Whaler's best concert yet.
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