In Memoriam - Brad Lewis
In the hours since his passing, my news feed has been filled with tributes to Brad Lewis. He billed himself as ‘Lazy’ Brad but those of us who knew him all agreed he was anything but so. What has become apparent is Brad was beloved and respected far and wide. His kindness, patience and love for his family and friends will be a large section of his legacy. But his songs and musical performances have left me with a deep sense of admiration and a sadness that I will never see or hear him again live. In a world where many feel the need to get ahead, Brad rolled along with an easy grace and a seeming inner peace. His musicianship is the stuff of local legend, but his mentorships of students and fellow musicians leave a lasting mark on all who were fortunate to be in his substantial orbit.
I had the pleasure of including Brad as a guest lead guitar player for a Coyote Moon gig a few years back. He was so smooth and supportive of the songs. On a number of occasions he came to one of our shows and would come up and lead us in a few tunes. It was always special.
Brad performed twice at our SoCal Songwriter Showcase and left me spellbound by his songs and performances. I had so hoped he would return for more…but his declining health prevented it.
Music is magic. Brad knew it and was a tremendous source of magic. He’s moved on now, as the saying goes. May his memory be a blessing. -Ace
Brad Lewis
Los Angeles, CA
Brad Lewis is as smooth as Tennessee Whiskey! The writer and the tune. It all folds together seamlessly when it’s done right. And you’re no longer listening to music. You’re being told secrets in hushed tones. That’s the way it is when you first hear, Lazy Brad Lewis. The songs just feel lived-in. - Born in Toronto, Canada, Brad migrated to Southern Calif. at an early age. - early influences,Hank Snow and Hank Williams, radio, KRLA, KFOX live broadcasts on Sundays VFW, After High School he was a regular performer at local Honky Tonks, George’s Round Up, Foothill Club and many others. - mid 80’s starts his own group, Cheyenne and takes over Dale Watson’s regular gig at The Blue Bayou. - early 90’s, California Country Music Association (Golden West Chapter) Band of the Year and Male Vocalist of the Year. (Awarded at the Foothill Club where he was a sideman just a few years before). - Will Ray asked him to join his group The Gila Monsters, (pre Helecasters) they were regular performers at the Palomino Club. - Returns to school for music degree (meets Bill Barrett) their first collaboration is the only blues/jazz group signed to punk label, SST records. - Brad Teaches at Downey Unified for many years and is awarded two Honorary Service Awards from the State of California all the while playing up to six nights a week. - Brad and Bill Barrett have toured Central Europe several times and are planning the next tour. - Current groups include Brad Lewis & The Lazy Bastards, Grand Junction, Road Kill Kings, Claremont VooDoo Society, songwriter Lance Mowdy and Barrett and Lewis. Three CD’s available under Lazy Brad Lewis wherever you get your music.
Showcase Appearances
Showcase 5
Showcase 11