Most managers would never dream of putting together three performers with three totally different styles to become a touring act, but fortunately for the Southern Troubadours, its managers took the road less traveled.
The Southern Troubadours is comprised of blues and folk singer-songwriter Ruthie Foster, country-rock guitarist and singer-songwriter Joe Ely, and blues-rock singer-songwriter Paul Thorn. The group is now embarking on a cross country tour, and performing at the Manship Theatre on April 9.
The idea for the three to come together came from their management teams. After suggestion from their management, Foster, Thorn and Ely decided doing three or four shows at a time would be a good idea. Foster thought it best they all get together and discuss how the show would work.
“We managed to sit down together and tell stories about our lives and wrap that around the songs that we sing,” Foster said.
Out of the discussion came the format of its show, which consists of storytelling and song swapping. After its first few shows, the trio realized how much they enjoyed performing together, and wanted to keep it going.
“We thought we should come together just for a few shows last year,” Foster said. “Then, we realized how much fun it is, so we’ve come together again.”
Despite the three musicians being different, Foster said it was easy for her to take the leap of faith to tour with them because of how much respect she has for them. She had worked with Thorn a couple years ago, when the two went on a February tour through the Northeastern United States.
Foster said Thorn is great to tour with, as he’s funny and has great introspective music. Getting to work with Ely was also something she looked forward to as the two had been acquainted with each other through the years at different festivals. Foster said working with living legend Ely is an amazing opportunity.
The Southern Troubadours is now a successful touring act. Foster attributes the success to the musicians’ different performing styles, and the intimacy of the show.
“It’s basically us with a guitar, a bottle of water and a microphone,” Foster said. “It’s really simple but it makes for a treasured evening, and people seem to enjoy the combination.”
Foster is no stranger to success herself, as her last three albums have been nominated for Grammys, including a nomination this year for her latest album “Promise Of A Brand New Day.” Foster said the Grammys are a huge deal to her, and getting nominated for the coveted musicians’ award is an unforgettable experience.
Foster said her experience on tour as part of the Southern Troubadours is also unforgettable, because she’s never experienced anything like performing with other artists with such vast and thoughtful music.
The Southern trio is excited to come to Baton Rouge because of the people. Foster said local crowds will appreciate each of the music styles the Southern Troubadours present. She also can’t wait for the warmer weather. During her earlier tours, Foster spent most of her time in the Northeastern United States.
“It felt like I was playing in perpetual winter, so I can’t wait for the heat Baton Rouge has to offer,” Foster said.
The Southern Troubadours will perform at the Manship Theatre on Thursday, April 9 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $60 plus fees.