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Chris O’Leary is a standout blues singer, harmonica player, and songwriter known for his gritty voice, forceful harp style, and deeply felt original songs. His new Alligator Records album, Blue Collar, just released, showcases 11 original tracks that blend Chicago blues, Memphis soul, and New Orleans funk into a raw, energetic sound.Born in 1968 in Schenectady, New York, O’Leary grew up absorbed in music and was especially shaped by seeing The Band with Levon Helm, then by hearing Muddy Waters, Johnny Winter, and James Cotton. Those influences pushed him toward blues harmonica, and as a kid he taught himself to play on a Hohner Marine Band harp. He has said that hearing Cotton live was a life-changing moment that confirmed the path he wanted to follow.
O’Leary joined the Marines in 1986, and his service in the Middle East left him with experiences that later fed directly into his songwriting and stage presence. After the military, he emerged as a respected figure on the upstate New York blues scene and caught the attention of Levon Helm, who brought him into his orbit and later asked him to front The Barn Burners in New Orleans. He went on to tour widely, work as a federal police officer, and keep performing whenever he could, building a reputation as a relentless road warrior.
Over time, O’Leary became known for soulful singing, masterful harmonica playing, and songs rooted in real life, hard-earned experience, and a deep respect for the blues tradition.
*All reserved seats for this event are subject to a $25 food or beverage minimum. All Premium Stage Bar Seats have a direct, unobstructed view of the stage, and a $25 food or beverage minimum.
*All ticket sales are final are non-refundable.
*This event is 21+ unless accompanied by a parent or guardian.
*All reserved seats will be released 60 minutes after scheduled showtime. If you have not checked in prior to sixty minutes after scheduled showtime, your reserved seats will be forfeited and and your tickets will revert to General Admission.
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Event venue
The Funky Biscuit, 303 SE Mizner Blvd, Boca Raton, FL 33432-6004, United States
Tickets
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