DAS Entertainment Presents:
Blues in the Haze III is Here!
Calling all blues aficionados! Prepare yourselves for an electrifying night of soul-stirring, high-octane music as we bring you the grand finale of our showcase series: Blues in the Haze III!
We are thrilled to transform the iconic, intimate setting of the Hazeltine Theater in Prescott, AZ, into a sanctuary for world-class blues. This is the moment we’ve all been waiting for—the definitive closing chapter of our third series, and we are going out with a bang!
The Lineup: From Captivating Blues to a Super Blues Finale
MARK HUMMEL AND ALL STARS BLUES
Mark Hummel: Grammy-nominated artist and two-time BMA winner virtuoso who has been a torchbearer for traditional blues harmonica since the 1970s. Our headline visionary and harmonica master. Mark has hand-picked a "All Star Blues Band" that represents the gold standard of the genre. All masters of their own. Be prepared to be blown away by this powerhouse ensemble featuring:
Anson Funderburgh: The iconic Texas guitar master known for his signature smooth, blistering tone. Hailing from Texas, Anson Funderburgh is celebrated for his impeccably clean, classic Fender Stratocaster tone, heavily drawing from the styles of Otis Rush and Magic Sam. He launched Anson Funderburgh & The Rockets in 1981. Anson is a highly sought-after producer and session player, contributing his signature fiery-yet-disciplined solos to projects for Jimmie Vaughan, Delbert McClinton, and The Fabulous Thunderbirds.
Junior Watson: A Southern California legend whose unique, dynamic style is guaranteed to dazzle. Junior Watson represents wild, swinging unpredictability. He is famous for an eccentric, highly improvisational style that blends jump blues, swing, and vintage rock ’n’ roll. Watson was a founding member of Rod Piazza’s The Mighty Flyers (playing with them for a decade) and spent the 1990s touring and recording with the legendary blues-rock band Canned Heat.
Bill Stuve: A veteran of the upright bass, providing the deep, rock-solid heartbeat of the rhythm section. Widely respected for providing the heavy, driving low-end required for West Coast jump blues. Stuve is known for his incredible three-decade tenure as the bassist for Rod Piazza & The Mighty Flyers, helping define the band's award-winning signature sound.
Wes Starr: a premier rhythm-section anchor whose versatility has made him a legend in both the blues and roots-rock communities. An acclaimed Texas percussionist bringing years of mastery and unforgettable, driving grooves to the stage. Starr has kept time for an astonishing roster, including Willie Nelson, Asleep at the Wheel, Jimmie Vaughan, Hal Ketchum, Delbert McClinton, and Marcia Ball.
KICKING OFF THE EVENING!
DENNIS HERRERA BLUES
These true-to-form blues artisans are masters of their craft, delivering gut-wrenching, captivating blues grooves designed to hold your attention and get you on your feet. Prepare to bust a move, cut a rug, and boogie all night long as they set the perfect stage for what's to come!
Featuring:
Dennis Hernrera: guitar & vocals - As the powerhouse bandleader, singer, and guitarist, Dennis has been an active force in the music industry for over 40 years. Raised in the San Francisco Bay Area during the 1960s. Herrera has released four studio albums, including his acclaimed 2024 album, FOUR. In recognition of his mastery of the groove and soul-stirring fretwork, he was honored with two Master Blues Artist Awards by the Blues Hall of Fame (both in Los Angeles and San Francisco) in 2019. He has shared stages and recording studios with blues royalty, including Tommy Castro, Anson Funderburgh, Lynwood Slim and more.
Steve Willis: keys, backing vocals - a multi-instrumentalist (piano, organ, accordion, and harmonica) with a career spanning over 50 years dedicated to traditional American roots and blues music. Willis is an Arizona Blues Hall of Fame (AZBHOF) inductee (1994). He won a prestigious Blues Foundation Award for "Band of the Year" as part of the Elvin Bishop Band.
Alex Holland: sax, backing vocals - A D.C. area native and a graduate of Morehead State University, Alex Holland is widely regarded as a master craftsman of tone, intensity, and deep soul on the contemporary blues and jazz circuit. A professional touring and session musician since 1980, Holland has lent his riveting horn sections to a literal "Who's Who" of music history. Played with legendary icons such as Etta James, Koko Taylor, Clarence "Gatemouth" Brown and more.
Fran Bama: bass - anchors the band's rhythm section. In traditional blues, the bassist’s primary job is keeping the pocket wide and deep so the guitar and sax can fly, a role Bama plays perfectly.
Floyd Roberson: drums - serves as the driving heartbeat and timekeeper for the ensemble. Roberson provides the essential rhythmic foundation required to pivot seamlessly between low-down smoky shuffles, traditional Juke Joint beats, and blistering blues-rock tempos.
Don’t wait until this is the final showcase of the series, and tickets are expected to move fast for such an incredible gathering of talent.
Join us for an unforgettable night of rhythm, soul, and pure blues mastery. We can’t wait to see you there, friends!