Mississippi’s own Steve Azar will be featured in a new television series spotlighting rising music stars from across the U.S.
The Magnolia State’s cultural ambassador and host of In A Mississippi Minute is slated to be a judge on AXS TV’s broadcast of Banded, an innovative series that redefines the traditional “build-a-band” concept and showcases up-and-coming artists who can play, write, and sing.
“I’ve been working with a lot of young artists after returning home to Mississippi. The past 12 years as an artist in residence at Delta State and the Delta Music Institute have been fulfilling for me, as well as working and writing with, publishing, and producing a number of new acts that are making their way in their particular genres,” Azar said. “When I was asked to be a mentor on this new TV series, I was like, ‘Oh baby, I’m all in.'”
In the series debut, 25 contenders will be placed into five brand new multi-genre bands under the guidance of award-winning and nominated songwriters, producers, and artists such as Wendy Starland, Paul Ebersold, Steve Diamond, Justin Wilson, and Dave Pahanish.
Each new episode will feature a roster of mentors and guest judges from across the music spectrum, such as metal icons Vince Neil and Kip Winger, the aforementioned Azar, Kevin Lyman, and world-class rock ‘n roll drummer Mark Schulman.
“The kids on the show are incredibly talented, and there has never been a competitive music series like this one,” Azar continued. “I’m looking forward to many years of success. I have no doubt that ‘Banded’ will serve as an incredible conductor to so many new music careers in the future.”
The inaugural season will present eight all-new episodes, with six hour-long episodes bookended by the 90-minute season premiere and season finale. Episode one will premiere on Saturday, May 13 at 9/8c.
