Welcome
I'm a musician in Portland, Oregon with a passion for pre-war folk and blues music. I used to write original songs and perform as a singer-songwriter; I now prefer discovering old songs and performing with other musicians whenever possible. I've also taught classes and private lessons, and organized benefit concerts and jams. Read on for more details….
Side Projects
Portland Jug Band History
Exclusive interviews and related videos.
Jug Tracks
An online song library and multi-track player for studying jug band arrangements.
Tips for Jug Band Jams
Musical ideas and etiquette for joining a jam.
Get It Videos
Writing two lost Memphis Jug Band songs.
Shade/Burse Tribute
Recreating the 1958 Will Shade and Charlie Burse video.
Whistler Tribute
Recreating the 1930 Whistler's Jug Band film.
Latest News
How Long Jug Band Sample Videos
February 11, 2024
The How Long Jug Band has recorded some new demo videos, including a couple jug band classics and a couple from the outskirts of the genre. Watch the videos
New Album
August 12, 2020
I spent part of the COVID-19 shutdown recording my first solo album in 17 years. Golden Harvest is a collection of obscure jug band songs with the original arrangements reproduced as accurately as possible. You can order a physical copy from my Products page or listen online
Charlie Burse Gravestone Fundraiser
February 13, 2018
I'm working with the Mt. Zion Memorial Fund to buy a gravestone for Charlie Burse, Will Shade's alter ego and loyal partner in the Memphis Jug Band. Support the campaign
Jug Band Interview Project
February 11, 2017
Here's the culmination of a project I've been chipping away at for almost two years: interviews with four people who knew Will Shade and other jug band pioneers before they died in the 1960s. Read the interviews
Spodee-o's Sample Videos
November 21, 2015
The Spodee-o's have recorded some new demo videos, featuring a sextet configuration with resonator guitar, harmonica, clarinet, piano, washboard and upright bass. Watch the videos
Jug Playing Sampler
December 1, 2014
If I ever hear of an opportunity for a professional jug playing gig, I want to be ready, so I assembled this demo reel to show off my jug chops.