When they applied to perform at FutureStars Showcase 2017, The Crushers band members knew that the event was a fun chance to play their music for family and friends, because they had performed at the concert the year before. In 2016, they were a foursome; brothers Ben and Jonathan Godbout (drums and guitar/vocals) and brothers Jake and Zac Brennan (guitar and bass) all between 11 and 13 years old. In 2017, after a year of working on their music and adding lead vocalist James Barone they knew they could out-do their previous concert performance.
They certainly did. Their group sold a record number of tickets, giving them the headliner spot in the concert line-up where they rocked the house with originals, 90’s, classic, and southern rock music. They won the attention of Steve Gaetz, the Entertainment Manager of the Gardner Ale house, as well.
It was just the beginning of a music filled year. Since April last year, they have performed regularly at local music venues like The Gardner Ale House, South Side Grille, the Paxton Summer Jam, the Sterling Summer Concert Series, and the Chocksett Food Truck Festival. In November, they were featured on FATV’s Barbara & You where they performed several original and cover songs.
When they are not performing or rehearsing, the band works on creating their original music – a group effort where “everyone leaves their mark” adding lyrics, melodies, riffs and rhythms to build the song. They plan to start recording their music for a CD, but meanwhile, the group loves to perform – they love the gigs. Catch The Crushers at their next show at Gardner Ale House on Thursday, February 1st. Follow them at: https://www.crushers.rocks
City Music has been hosting the FutureStars Showcase for musicians 18 years and under since 2005. The Crushers are not the first group to go on to greater musical pursuits. Our Showcase has seen the start of many young musicians through the years.
Jack Babineau was a FutureStar soloist in 2008 who has developed a robust performance career, opening for great acts like Blues Traveler, Clint Black, Devon Allman’s Honeytribe, Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes and John Cafferty. Read more at: http://www.jackbabineau.com
In 2013, The Cranks – then a trio (twins Connor and Haley Gowland and Alex Markoski) that had already recorded three CD’s of their original music – performed at FutureStars. They went on to win the RADAR award from New England Music Awards and Pavoh.org for rising artists in New England. In 2015, The Cranks released a 4th CD called “Cute Hat”. Check out: http://www.thecranks.com
Bradley James also played at the 2013 Showcase. Just 10 years old at the time, this young jazz pianist wowed the audience with his jazz originals and stage presence. Bradley went on to become the youngest musician to perform at Faneuil Hall Marketplace where he is known as the “Boston Piano Kid”. In 2016 he played at Fenway onstage with Billy Joel, performing “Root Beer Rag”. Visit: https://www.facebook.com/BostonPianoKid
Who knows what young musicians will step on to our stage this year or next, but we look forward to hearing their music and applauding their efforts. It is an exciting and impressive experience, even for those who choose not to pursue music as a career. If you know a young musician or band 18 years or younger that would like this opportunity, encourage them to apply for FutureStars Showcase 2018.
Hurry! Get the application HERE Now. The deadline is February 17th.
