We can’t wait to see you at our upcoming shows - we have LOTS of opportunities for you to come out and get your ROCK on! Check out our calendar here for what’s next!
March 2026
Happy Saint Patrick's Day
The Search Update: Finding the Right Frontperson for Creek
The Search Update: Finding the Right Frontperson for Creek
March felt like the right time to share where we are in the search. We’ve met and texted with some talented people so far. That part is exciting.
What the process has taught us, though, is that it is an extensive search process. We’re looking for someone who can move from the grit of Alice in Chains to the space and dynamics of Pink Floyd, with the punch and energy of Stone Temple Pilots and still sound like themselves.
The right frontperson doesn’t just sing in front of the band. They help raise energy. They connect with the crowd without forcing it.
We’re looking for someone 20 or older who:
Has strong, versatile vocals
Is confident on stage
Is serious about building something long term
We’re not rushing this. The right fit is worth taking the time to find.
Ready to Audition?
If you’re interested, start by filling out our audition form:
You can also email us directly at:
If you know someone who should be fronting a rock band, send this their way.
We’re building something real. Now we’re looking for the right voice to lead it.
Looking for the Right Front Person
Looking for the Right Front Person
We’ve started the search for a front person and want to be clear about what we’re looking for and how we’re approaching it.
This isn’t about filling a spot quickly. We’re taking time to talk with people, listen to demos, and get a real sense of how things feel musically and personally. Chemistry matters just as much as talent, so we want the process to feel thoughtful and low pressure.
We’re looking for a front person who is at least 20 years old, has strong vocals, and feels comfortable leading from the stage. Presence matters. So does knowing how to connect with a crowd and work as part of a band, not above it.
Musically, we lean into rock with depth and grit. Think Alice in Chains, Stone Temple Pilots, Primus, and Pink Floyd as reference points. You don’t need to sound exactly like anyone, but you should feel at home in that space and bring your own voice and personality to it.
We play in a mix of rooms and crowds. Adaptability is important, and awareness on stage goes a long way.
The process will start with a short application, followed by a conversation and shared recordings, then move into rehearsals to see how things translate in the room. This isn’t an audition gauntlet; it’s about finding the right fit.
Apply here by clicking this link.
Email: creekmusicofficial@gmail.com
If you’ve been thinking about stepping into a role like this, this might be the right time.
New Year, New Chaos(Thanks For Being Part Of It)
New Year, New Chaos(Thanks For Being Part Of It)
New year, same band… probably.
Huge thank you to everyone who came to shows, yelled lyrics, bought merch, clapped off beat, or just stood there nodding like you totally knew the song. You kept us alive, fed, and mostly out of trouble this year.
Big love to the venues, promoters, sound folks, bartenders, and anyone who didn’t kick us out. Thanks for the stages, the lights, the last-minutes favors, and pretending our load-in times made sense.
Next year might bring new songs, new cities, new gear, maybe new bad habits, and definitely new stories we can’t tell online. Some things will change. Some won’t. The volume will not.
Thanks for riding with us. See you in the crowd, at the bar, or right up-front yelling for the old one.
Cheers,
Creek
A Gift-Giving List for the Musicians in Your Life
A Gift-Giving List for the Musicians in Your Life
Shopping for musicians is tricky. They’ll swear they “don’t need anything,” and then spend the next week complaining about a cable that crackles or a tuner that died three months ago. If you’ve got a musician on your holiday list, here are some gifts that will actually land.
Fresh strings.
They’ll act like they change them “all the time,” but we both know they don’t. A fresh set feels like a mini spa day for a guitar or bass.
A Tuner that doesn’t have trust issues.
There’s always one person who insists their ear is good enough. It isn’t. Save them. Save all of us.
A mountain of picks.
Guitarists lose picks at a rate that defies science. They vanish into pockets, couches, and alternate dimensions. A bulk pack is never wrong.
Drumsticks that won’t be broken in twenty minutes.
Drummers treat sticks the way toddlers treat crayons. They’re lucky to last a full rehearsal. Give them a bundle and watch their eyes light up.
A sturdy music stand.
Every musician has a stand that leans like it’s surviving a natural disaster. A solid one is an act of mercy.
A good cable.
You’d think cables would be simple. They’re not. One bad cable can ruin a rehearsal and a mood. A high-quality one is a small miracle.
A comfortable strap.
If they play long shows, a soft strap is the difference between “I love music” and “Why does my shoulder feel like it’s 90 years old?”
A real gig bag.
Some musicians still carry their instruments around in a case held together by hope and tape. A padded bag is a huge upgrade.
A notebook for lyric or riff ideas.
Musicians get ideas at the worst possible times. Help them write things down before they forget the best riff they’ll ever play.
Snacks. Always snacks.
Long rehearsals are powered by sugar, salt, and questionable decisions. A snack stash is never ignored.
A gift card to the local music shop.
When all else fails, let them pick out the weird little thing they’ve been eyeing. It might be a pedal. It might be a kazoo. Don’t ask questions.
If you give anything from this list, that musician will appreciate it more than another pair of socks. And if you’re the musician… go ahead and treat yourself. No judgement.
Make it stand out
Update from Creek
Update from Creek
We wanted to share that Kaitlyn Bogan has decided to step away from Creek. She’s been such an important part of what we do, and we’re so grateful for everything she’s brought to the music and to our time together.
This was a mutual and positive decision, and we’re excited to see what’s next for her. Kaitlyn will always be part of our story, and we’ll be cheering her on in whatever comes next.
As for us, we are currently working on new music, new set lists for the coming year, and we can’t wait to share what’s ahead. Thanks for sticking with us through every chapter.
-Creek Band
A Year Since Hurricane Helene
A Year Since Hurricane Helene
A year ago, no one thought Hurricane Helene would be much for our area. The forecast called for some wind and rain, nothing more than an inconvenience. But what came was so much heavier than anyone expected.
When the storm hit, it ripped through our community. Lives were lost, and families were left trying to piece together what remained. For us as a band, it’s a week we’ll never forget. Just as we released our very first single- something we had poured our hearts into- two of our members lost their home when a tree came crashing down on it. In one moment we were standing in shock, realizing how quickly everything can be taken away.
The days that followed were hard. The sound of chainsaws clearing debris, the smell of wet wood, the heavy silence when people didn’t know what to say. But in that pain, we also saw people show up for one another in ways that can’t be forgotten. Neighbors gave what little they had, friends opened their doors, and strangers became family in the middle of the mess.
Even without power for days, we kept one of our scheduled shows. It wasn’t about the music charts or milestones- it was about giving people a reason to smile, to sing along, to feel normal again if only for a few hours. That night felt less like a performance and more like therapy for all of us.
Helene left scars on the land, on homes, and on hearts. But it also reminded us why we make music in the first place. Not just to release songs, but to connect, to heal, and to hold on to hope when things feel broken.
One year later, we still carry those memories. We carry the weight of loss, but also the gratitude for the strength that came out of it. And this fall, we’re heading back to play The Fear Farm again. One of the shows that meant so much last year. It feels like coming full circle, returning with the same spirit of resilience and gratitude that carried us through.
The Fear Farm
Get your tickets at scfearfarm.com
Meet Riley
14 Questions with Riley Cook-Bass Guitar
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14 Questions with Riley Cook-Bass Guitar
1. Birthday: November 29th
2. Hometown: Menifee, CA
3. Favorite instrument: Bass Guitar
4. What made you want to become a musician? My deep and uncontrollable love and obsession with music.
5. Which instruments did you play in high school? I took private piano lessons for a good bit, but I had to quit. I picked up the bass in 2022.
6. What are your hobbies or interests outside of music? I've been playing video games for as long as I can remember.
7. Describe your favorite performance venue. So far, I really loved playing at Wings Etc in Boiling Springs, South Carolina.
8. Tell us about the craziest/worst thing that has ever happened onstage. Only big one so far was when the strap came off my bass mid song.
9. What qualities do you think make a great musician? Knowing what to play, and when to play it. Even more important than that, is knowing what NOT to play and when NOT to play it.
10. How do you manage performance anxiety (Nervousness)? I refuse to acknowledge the anxiety. Outta sight, outta mind.
11. What is the most trouble that you ever have gotten into? In 5th grade, I punched someone in the mouth. I was a very angry kid. My mother was not happy.
12. What is your favorite song to perform? Probably Down by Stone Temple Pilots.
13. Who are you biggest influences? Michael League, Stuart Zender, Stanley Clarke, Justin Chancellor, Janek Gwizdala to name a few.
14. What's the best piece of advice another musician has ever given you? “Play with intent. Know the direction you are taking the music and know why”. Wise words for Chick Corea.
Band Update
Band Update!
As many of you know, Dani and Alex recently welcomed a new addition to their family. It’s been a beautiful, exciting time for them, and they’ve decided to take some time to focus on family. While we’ll definitely miss having them on stage with us, we fully support their decision to take this time and focus on family.
We’re thrilled to welcome Riley Cook to the stage. He’s bringing some serious talent and energy with him.
Please join us in sending love to Dani and Alex and help us give Riley a big warm welcome as he joins the Creek Band family. We can’t wait for what’s ahead!
Stay tuned for the next month’s blog post – Questions with Riley.
-Creek Band
Why Riley Cook Is Stepping In As The Bassist
Why Riley Cook is stepping in as bassist.
Why Riley Cook is stepping in as the bassist.
We’ve had a little bit of a lineup change since April, and we wanted to fill you in.
Our lead singer Dani Austin and bassist Alex Austin are on paternity leave – welcoming a new addition to their family! We couldn’t be happier for them and are so proud to see this new chapter beginning.
In the meantime, we’re keeping the music rolling with help from a new face: Riley Cook has been filling in on bass. Riley’s an incredibly talented musician, and we’re stoked to have him holding down the low end while Dani and Alex enjoy this special time.
The heart of the band is still beating strong, and we’ve been working hard behind the scenes to make sure the performances still delivers everything you love about our live shows- great energy, tight sound, and a setlist that hits just right.
Thanks for all the love and support. Let’s show Riley a warm welcome and send big congrats to Dani and Alex as they take on their greatest collaboration yet; parenthood!
See you at the show!
-Creek Band
Riley Cook
What We’re Listening To This June
A Playlist from Creek
A Playlist from Creek
Summer’s in full swing, and we’ve been deep in the soundwaves-on the road, in rehearsal, or just kicking back. Here’s what each of us in the Creek has been vibing to this June. It’s a mix of nostalgia, groove, grit, and pure feel-good music. Dive in:
Bryson Iskra – Lead Guitar
“Fins” – Jimmy Buffett
“This one just puts you in that coastal frame of mind. Can’t go wrong with Buffett in June.”
“Honky Tonk Hell” – Marcus King
“Killer tone, killer voice. The energy on this one is what I chase on stage.”
“Echoes”- Pink Floyd
“A journey every time. Massive inspiration for atmosphere and build.”
Jarrett Iskra – Drums/Vocals
“Vanilla”- Flipturn
“Love the groove and emotion packed into this. One of my go-to summer indie tracks.”
“Sailing”-Christopher Cross
“Smooth, clean, timeless. Total Vibe Reset.”
“Chinese Restaurant”-Baltimora
“It’s weird in all the best ways. Something about the best just sticks with me.”
Jace Yarborough – Rhythm Guitar/Vocals
“It Ain’t All Flowers”-Sturgill Simpson
“That psych-country blend is wild. Raw and bold, just how I like it.”
“Lost”- Linkin Park
“Heavy and heartfelt. It hits in a nostalgic way and still feels fresh.”
“Waste Away”-Fox N Vead
“Newer on my radar, but it’s stuck. Great energy and flow.”
Kaithlyn Bogan – Acoustic Guitar/Keyboard/Vocals
“Tangerine”-Ocean Alley
“Dreamy and warm. Perfect for a slow afternoon.”
“California Revisited”-America
“Throwback vibes with harmonies that still hit.”
“Calico Creek”-Stephen Wilson Jr.
“This one feels like home and heartbreak wrapped in one.”
Riley Cook – Bass Guitar*
“If I Like It, I Do It”-Jamiroquai
“Groove-forward and unapologetic. Bass line heaven.”
“Majestic Dance”-Return to Forever
“Jazz fusion masterclass. Big inspiration for how I think about rhythm and melody.”
“Tarova”-Snarky Puppy
“Tight, funky, and complex-just how I like it.”
*Riley is filling in for Dani and Alex while they are on parental leave.
Band Anthem of the Month
“Green River”-Creedence Clearwater Revival
“Swampy, gritty, and full of summer soul. This track feels like home for us-echoes of backroads, creeks, and long days in the heat. It’s been blasting through our speakers all month, setting the tone for writing sessions and road trips alike.”
Then & Now: A Look Back at The “First” Show
Then & Now: A Look Back at The “First” Show
Every band has that one night that started it all – and for us, it was at Wake N’ Bake Bar & Grill in Anderson, SC on July 28, 2023. We were nervous, excited and probably playing a little to fast from all the adrenaline. The setlist was a mix of classic rock staples we still love to this day:
The Marshall Tucker Band
Eagles
Fleetwood Mac
Lynyrd Skynyrd
Led Zepplin
Eric Clapton
The Doors
Looking back, we had no idea where it would lead. The gear was basic, the crowd was mostly friends and family, and we probably made a few mistakes – but the energy in that room told us we were onto something.
Fast forward to today, and a lot has changed. We’ve played 58 shows, tightened our sound, added new members, and built a community of fans who show up rain or shine. We’ve added new songs, created original songs, upgraded our gear, and shared the stage with some amazing talent. But the heart of it all – the love for the music and the joy of connecting with a crowd – has stayed exactly the same.
We’re grateful for every person who’s been with us on this ride. Whether you saw us in that tiny bar back in the day or caught us recently, thank you for rocking with us.
Wake N’ Bake Bar & Grill Anderson, SC 07/28/2023
Pictured (Bryson Iskra-Lead Guitar, Dani Austin-Lead Vocals, Jace Yarborough-Rhythm Guitar/Vocal, Jarrett Iskra-Drums/Vocals and Jonathan Osborne-Fill in Bass Guitar)
Pictured- Bryson Iskra(Lead Guitar), Kaitlyn Bogan(Acoustic Guitar/Keyboard/Vocals),Jarrett Iskra(Drums/Vocals),Dani Austin(Lead Vocals),Alex Austin(Bass Guitar), and Jace Yarborough(Rhythm Guitar/Vocals)
Meet Kaitlyn
11 Questions with Kaitlyn Bogan - Guitar/Keyboard/Vocals
11 Questions with Kaitlyn Bogan – Guitar/Keyboard/Vocals
1. Birthday: February 5th, 2006
2. Hometown: Spartanburg, SC
3. Favorite instrument: Guitar
4. How many different instruments do you play? I mainly play two instruments, guitar and piano.
5. Which instruments did you play in high school? I played violin from 9th-10th grade and I began playing piano in 10th grade. I also played my guitar throughout most of high school starting back in 10th grade.
6. What are your hobbies or interests outside of music? I like mountain bike; I’ve just picked up riding dirt bikes. I also love cars and going to car meets. I enjoy doing anything in nature, especially camping. And I absolutely love the beach.
7. What made you want to become a musician? I have always loved music ever since I was a little kid. Growing up music helped me through a lot, and I didn’t really realize just how much I love music up until these past few years. I began playing guitar again after a three-year break and once I picked it up, I couldn’t put it back down. I finally got to a point where I was so comfortable with guitar that I decided to start singing with it and just messing around. I was always super nervous to sing Infront of people but with the help of my mom I gained confidence with my abilities. Once I gained that confidence, I realized just how much I love music, especially being able to play it myself. That feeling is what made me realize that I must be a musician because it is my passion, and I absolutely love how it feels to recreate and create music of your own.
8. What qualities do you think make a great musician? Confidence, determination, and patience.
9. What is the most trouble that you ever have gotten into? One time I was speeding on a backroad, and I hydroplaned into a guy’s mailbox completely destroying it and I had the highway patrol called on me. Needless to say, my parents weren’t too happy about it.
10. What is your favorite song to perform? Evergreen by Richy Mitch and the Coal Miners
11. What are your biggest influences? Stevie Nicks, John Mayer, Pink Floyd, Black Pumas, Richy Mitch and the Coal Miners, Teddy Swims.
March to the Beat: The Soundtrack of the Season
March to the Beat: The Soundtrack of the Season
March is a month of change – winter starts fading, the days get longer, and the energy of spring begins to kick in. For us as a band, it’s the perfect time to shake off the cold and get back into the groove. Whether you’re hitting the road, gearing up for festival season, or just cranking up the volume at home, here’s what March sounds like in the work of rock ‘n’ rock.
1. The Ultimate Spring Rock Playlist
Spring means fresh energy, and nothing fuels that better than classic rock anthems. Here are a few tracks that define the season for us:
· “Here Comes the Sun” – The Beatles (Because, finally, it does.)
· “Runnin’ Down a Dream” – Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers (Perfect for road trips and fresh starts.)
· “Born to Run” – Bruce Springsteen (A song that feels like freedom.)
· “We Will Rock You” – Queen (Because March Madness isn’t just about basketball – it’s about rock too!)
· “Gimme Three Steps” – Lynyrd Skynyrd (A little Southern rock to shake things up.)
2. St. Patrick’s Day Rock ‘n’ Roll
March 17th isn’t just about green beer – it’s about celebrating the Irish spirit, and rock has no shortage of connections to it. Bands like Thin Lizzy and U2 have left their mark, and no St. Paddy’s Day party is complete without “Whiskey in the Jar” or “The Boys Are Back in Town.”
3. The Return of Live Music & Road Trips
Spring is when bands start hitting the road again, and we’re no exception. There’s nothing quite like the energy of a live show, the roar of a crowd, and the feeling of playing the songs we love. We’re gearing up for our upcoming shows, and we can’t wait to see you out there. Check our Event tab and let’s make some noise together!
4. Your March Rock Anthems
Music is all about connection, and we want to know – what’s on you March playlist? Do you have a go-to song that puts you in a springtime mood? Drop us a message on our website or social media!
March is the time to turn it up and shake off the winter blues. Let’s rock into spring the right way!
CREEK’s Faves for Valentine’s Day: A Playlist to Share the Love
CREEK’s Faves for Valentine’s Day: A Playlist to Share the Love
Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity to show love and appreciation for the special people in our lives. Music, especially ballads, has a magical way of expressing emotions words can’t always capture. Whether you're celebrating with someone special or just feeling love in the air, the right song can set the perfect tone for the day. Here are a few timeless ballads along with personal favorites from those of us who love music as much as you do.
1. "I Will Always Love You" – Whitney Houston
A song that has become synonymous with love itself, Whitney Houston’s rendition of Dolly Parton’s "I Will Always Love You" is nothing short of legendary. The powerful emotion in Whitney’s voice transcends all, making it one of the greatest ballads to express the complexity of love, whether it's sweet, tragic, or everlasting.
2. "Unchained Melody" – The Righteous Brothers
This one is an absolute classic. The Righteous Brothers’ "Unchained Melody" continues to be a favorite for lovers everywhere, with its soulful melody and lyrics that resonate deeply with anyone who's ever experienced longing and devotion. It’s often considered the ultimate romantic ballad. Remember the serenade in Top Gun?
3. "November Rain" – Jace's Favorite
Jace knows that when it comes to epic, emotional ballads, "November Rain" by Guns N' Roses hits all the right notes. This rock ballad blends orchestral elements with poignant lyrics about love and heartbreak, making it a timeless choice for anyone who enjoys their romance with a touch of dramatic flair. Whether you're listening on a rainy day or not, it’s the kind of song that just feels right on Valentine’s Day.
4. "Blue Christmas" – Alex's Favorite
For those who find beauty in the bittersweet side of love, Alex's go-to song is "Blue Christmas" by Elvis Presley. While often associated with the holiday season, this nostalgic track can evoke feelings of longing and loss—emotions that are still deeply felt on Valentine's Day, especially for those missing someone special. Elvis’ soulful rendition adds a layer of melancholy that makes this song unforgettable.
5. "For Sentimental Reasons" – Dani's Favorite
Dani’s pick for a sentimental ballad is the smooth, heartwarming "For Sentimental Reasons" by Nat King Cole. This classic love song, with its rich vocals and timeless lyrics, perfectly captures the tender emotions we feel when we cherish someone deeply. It’s one of those songs that never fails to evoke a sense of nostalgia, making it a lovely addition to any Valentine’s Day playlist.
6. "Don’t You Want Me" – Jarrett's Favorite
If you’re looking for something a little more upbeat with a touch of ’80s nostalgia, Jarrett suggests "Don’t You Want Me" by The Human League. This iconic synth-pop song is a playful yet passionate tale of a love that’s complicated but undeniable. It’s perfect for anyone who wants a little more energy in their romantic playlist.
7. "Too Shy" – Jarrett’s Other Favorite
Jarrett also loves "Too Shy" by Kajagoogoo, another catchy ’80s hit with a fun beat. This upbeat yet flirty song captures the feeling of a hesitant romance and the excitement of that early stage of love when you’re too shy to fully express how you feel. It’s perfect for those lighthearted moments on Valentine’s Day when the butterflies are just starting to flutter.
8. "Your Love" – Jarrett’s Third Favorite
For those who enjoy a little more rock in their love songs, Jarrett’s third pick is "Your Love" by The Outfield. The song has an infectious energy, and its catchy guitar riff and relatable lyrics about love and longing make it a great choice for Valentine’s Day, especially if you want something a bit more spirited.
9. "Rosanna" – Bryson’s Favorite
Bryson's favorite is "Rosanna" by Toto, a perfect mix of pop-rock with a touch of romance. With its smooth melody and catchy hooks, this song captures the feeling of infatuation and devotion in a way that’s both upbeat and heartfelt. It's a great way to add some energy to the mix, especially if you’re dancing or singing along to your Valentine’s playlist.
10. "At Last" – Etta James
Etta James’ "At Last" is one of those love songs that everyone should have in their playlist. It celebrates finding that one special person who makes everything fall into place. The timeless quality of the song and Etta’s powerhouse vocals make this an absolute must for anyone looking to create a romantic atmosphere.
11. "Make You Feel My Love" – Adele
Adele’s soulful version of "Make You Feel My Love" is an emotional powerhouse. The vulnerability and longing in her voice make this ballad one of the most touching love songs in recent years. It’s a perfect fit for those moments when you want to express the depth of your love for someone.
12. "All of Me" – John Legend
John Legend’s "All of Me" is the modern-day love anthem. Written for his wife, it’s a song that speaks to accepting your partner’s flaws and embracing their true self. Its beautiful melody and heartfelt lyrics make it an essential Valentine’s Day ballad for anyone who wants to convey deep affection.
From timeless classics to personal favorites, these ballads are sure to capture all the different shades of love on Valentine’s Day. Whether you're feeling the intensity of "November Rain", the nostalgia of "Blue Christmas", or the joy of "Rosanna", these songs will help create the perfect soundtrack for a day filled with love and connection. And if you’re NOT feeling the love, check out CREEK’s newest release “Think About You (Tomorrow)” on all platforms! So, turn on the music, feel the magic of these heartfelt tunes, and let the love flow!
Happy Valentine's Day! 💖
Thank You for an Incredible Year
Thank You for an Incredible Year
As we close out this year, we wanted to take a moment to reflect on what an amazing ride it’s been and express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made it possible.
To all the venues who welcomed us onto your stages – thank you. Your support, hard work, and dedication to live music gave us the opportunity to share what we love with so many people. Each show, each soundcheck, and every moment we spent at your venues was a reminder of how much live music brings us together.
And to all of you who came out to see us perform – whether you caught one show or came to several – your energy and enthusiasm are what make it all worthwhile. Seeing familiar faces in the crowd, meeting new friends, and hearing you sing along made this year unforgettable. Your support fuels us to keep playing, keep creating, and keep growing.
As we head into the new year, we’re excited for what’s to come – more shows, new music, and more memories to make with all of you.
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for an incredible year. We couldn’t do this without you, and we can’t wait to see you again in the new year.
Here’s to another year of great music and good times. Cheers!
Creek Band
Pictures from this year.
Thank you to the following venues for having us this year.
Christmas Memories
Christmas Memories
🎄 CREEK Band Members Share Their Favorite Christmas Memories 🎄
As the holiday season descends upon us, bringing with it twinkling lights, cozy evenings with family, and the scent of baking cookies, we thought it would be the perfect time to share some cherished Christmas memories from our band members. Here’s a peek into what makes the season special for each of us.
Dani’s Snowy Christmas ❄️ "One of my best Christmases ever was when I woke up to a snowy white Christmas one year when I was maybe 9 or 10 years old. I grew up in northern New York, so it was always a possibility but was more rare than you think. I remember waking up, looking out the window, and seeing it had snowed all night long. Nothing better than snow on Christmas!"
Bryson’s Dollywood Adventure 🎢 "If I had to pick one Christmas, 'since Jarrett already stole Disney,' I would say the trip we took to Dollywood one Christmas. I really love Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, TN and I already enjoy theme parks. So, it was like the best of both worlds."
Jarrett’s Scavenger Hunt Surprise 🗺️ "One time my mother and stepfather made a little scavenger hunt for us to solve on Christmas Day. When we (my siblings and I) finally cracked the scavenger hunt code, we found out that we were going to Disney World. I was so happy, and it turned into the best Christmas I have ever had."
Jace’s Paintball Christmas 🎁 "My best Christmas ever was when me and my cousin got paintball guns. It ended up being a firefight in the backyard."
Alex’s Holiday Spirit 🎅 "I don’t really have a specific story, just really love the time of year. Being off school/work for a while and spending a lot of time with family is great."
We hope these stories brought a smile to your face and maybe even inspired you to reflect on your own favorite Christmas memories. As we continue to make music together, we’re grateful for the moments that bind us and the traditions that keep our spirits bright. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from CREEK!
Thanksgiving: Family, Food, and Fun
Thanksgiving: Family, Food, and Fun.
As we approach Thanksgiving, the holiday invites us to reflect on our cherished memories, favorite dishes, and unique family traditions. Our Creek band members share their thoughts on this special time of year, and their answers paint an interesting picture of what Thanksgiving means to them.
Favorite Family Memories
Thanksgiving is all about family, and it often brings back warm memories of gatherings. Family gatherings are a common theme. Dani recalls, “I loved Thanksgiving as a kid, my entire family (all 26 of us) would get together at my aunt and uncle’s house. Nothing better than a big family all together.” Jarrett’s perspective resonates deeply: “Any moment with family that has passed is now very special to me.” For Bryson and Alex, the essence of Thanksgiving lies in simply “being around family” and “spending time with family.” Jace, however, has a more singular focus: “I’m too focused on eating.”
Favorite Foods on the Table
When it comes to the Thanksgiving feast, everyone has their favorites. Dani treasures her nana’s chocolate chip cake, which is whimsically shaped like a cooked turkey: “It’s easily the best cake I’ve ever had.” Jarrett keeps it simple with his lifelong favorite: “Mashed potatoes been #1 since day 1.” Jace loves dressing, adding, “Makes me feel fat.” Bryson is torn between turkey and Kim’s mac-n-cheese, while Alex shares Jace's fondness for cornbread dressing or stuffing — “Tastes super good, no idea how to make it.”
Fun Mornings
Thanksgiving mornings set the tone for the day. Dani enjoys the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, often with an apple cider mimosa in hand. Jarrett might catch the parade but is usually busy cooking food for family gatherings. Jace is all about football, while Bryson prefers to wake up whenever he likes and get ready for the feast. Alex joins the parade-watchers on the couch, enjoying quality time with family.
Black Friday Frenzy
The chaos of Black Friday shopping sparks varying opinions. Dani is firmly against it: “I want nothing to do with that madness.” Jarrett’s approach is more social: “Depends on who I’m with. Shop, shop, then shop some more.” Jace feels the excitement has waned, noting it’s less fun with everything available online now. Bryson has never ventured out for Black Friday, preferring the ease of online shopping, while Alex shares similar thoughts about no longer participating.
Favorite Guests
What if you could invite any musician to your Thanksgiving table? Dani would choose Stevie Nicks, saying, “Who wouldn’t want to share a meal with her?” Jarrett opts for Bill Bruford of King Crimson, intrigued by the prospect of discussing drums. Jace’s dream guest is Cliff Burton, his biggest inspiration: “We would party.” Bryson would love to have either Jimmy Page or David Gilmour, eager to hear their wild stories. Alex suggests inviting “the ghost of Elvis.” OK…
Hope your Thanksgiving is FULL of family, food, and FUN!
HURRICANE HELENE 2024
Hurricane Helene 2024
Recently, Upstate South Carolina and Western North Carolina caught the brunt of a category 4 hurricane named Helene. Our young band members had never experienced such devastation and destruction. Seeing the entire Upstate of SC in a blackout, and entire towns in NC washed away was shocking. Alex and Dani’s house had small debris and briefly lost power. Jace’s house lost all its shingles, and a huge pecan tree fell in the yard. But Bryson and Jarrett lost the most - a huge tree fell and split their home in half, making it a total loss. At the time of this writing, the brothers were living with their aunt Kim, along with Brooke and Sherri.
I asked about the band’s thoughts on the situation…
Bryson said, “This is the worst I’ve ever seen the Upstate in my lifetime!”
Jarrett said, “He wished we had been more prepared for the hurricane.”
Dani and Alex dittoed the comment.
Jace was mostly frustrated with being without power and water for 11 days straight.
But all the members of Creek Band were and are concerned about those families who lost loved ones. Prayers up for the victims of Hurricane Helene!
Roses
Roses - Creek Band original
Lead vocalist Dani Austin is the driving force behind the lyrics of the Creek Band’s just-released original song titled “Roses.” Recently, I asked Dani about how the song came to be, and she told me the story.
“Since getting into songwriting, I’ve come to realize that I’m an all or nothing kind of person. I always start with a topic or idea that I want to write about, and then I either stare blankly at the paper for an hour, jotting down random notes and phrases, or I can’t get my pen to move fast enough because the words are coming so fast. When I sat down to write Roses, the words just kind of poured out of me - I think because what I was writing about was so personal to me. (Now I’ve come to realize that my best songs are the ones that come out naturally.)”
Dani continues, “As I was growing up, I always had “adults” telling me to appreciate time because as I got older, the years would start going by faster and faster. Naturally, I didn’t start realizing how true that was until I entered my 20s. One day I got stuck in a sort of mental rabbit hole thinking about time really was starting to fly by. Six months since I joined the band, two years since getting married, 4 years since graduating college. It honestly had me reeling which, not uncommonly for me, led to a panic attack. After it passed, I was left feeling angry about time, and how it can’t be slowed down or paused no matter how much we want it to. How no matter what, minutes are going to go by, and we have no control over that. From that anger, Roses was written.
That feeling of being dragged along without control, “...like a wind-up toy, but someone else holds the key.”
The guys put together music that really matched the angst and rushed feeling that I was trying to get across with this song. I think I speak for all of us saying that we’re really proud of this song as the first song Creek wrote together.”
We love “Roses”, and we hope you do too!
Out Now on all Streaming platforms.
“The MusicMan” - Tim Bivins
The MusicMan - Tim Bivins
Believe it or not, drummer Jarrett is also a gifted TROMBONIST. We recently spoke to Tim Bivins, who has been Jarrett’s trombone instructor since middle school. Curious? Keep reading!
You started out on trumpet… when did you begin playing?
I started playing… in the 5th grade.
Do you play any other instruments?
I have since branched out into… the Brasswind family… all the saxophones, and clarinet.
Are you currently playing in a band, and if so, what band?
I currently play with the First Baptist North Orchestra.
When did you play your first gig? Details?
…when I was in 11th grade at a church near Greenville, SC. I made $50.
Which do you prefer: solo, duo, or full band, and why?
I enjoy the versatility of playing multiple instruments in a variety of settings…
How long have you been teaching lessons?
I started teaching lessons in college on the side for the extra cash flow. Eventually it grew into a full-time business…
How did you begin teaching trombone?
Same answer.
What inspired you to teach your skills to others?
…the extra cash flow and being my own boss… plus, I really enjoy teaching and sharing my skills with others.
Teaching and playing gigs are your main jobs?
I do have some side hustles.
What advice would you give to a beginning student?
Practice, practice, practice… and never give up!
What qualities make a good musician?
To be not only ‘good’ but also ‘successful,’ requires a sense of responsibility and professionalism in the working environment, and an innate love of music never hurts.
How long has Jarrett been taking lessons from you?
Since 2016
What is Jarrett’s greatest skill as a trombonist?
Jarrett is physically well-equipped for Trombone with a natural embouchure, his overall love of music… and his energetic personality have all contributed to his success.
How have Jarrett’s lessons changed from when he started playing?
Obviously, Jarrett is capable of performing much more difficult and challenging material than when he first started, and with a more mature approach.
Jarrett is certainly very gifted as a musician, and he is versatile as well - as can be seen by his success both as a drummer and a trombonist. He has accomplished a lot through the years, which is somewhat rare to see someone do on two completely different instruments. He obviously loves music
