The Grammy Award-winning band Snarky Puppy visited Hattiesburg Feb. 22, performing and providing a workshop at Brewsky’s.

Snarky Puppy features a total of 40 musicians who often rotate positions in the band due to each of their schedules, as well as their ability to play numerous instruments. The event began with a brief discussion about the band, as well as the individuals who were involved in bringing them to the Brewsky’s stage.

Afterward, members of The University of Southern Mississippi’s chapter of the National Association for Music Education continued the event by introducing Mark Waymire, assistant professor of music education at USM. Waymire then briefly informed audience members that he felt it was important to have students introduce the band rather than himself because many of them were the people who made this event possible.

“Snarky Puppy has been gracing us with their presence for about seven or eight years,” said Meghan Sheehy, a graduate student in the School of Music. “We are so fortunate to have them, they are amazing guys.”
Sheehy introduced the band as they received applause from everyone in the room. Michael League, the band’s leading member, expressed his gratitude toward Hattiesburg and thanked everyone for supporting Snarky Puppy.

“We are grateful to Southern Miss and Meghan for bringing us here,” League said. “Hattiesburg is the first town we played in where we actually have a fan base outside of Texas.”

League continued to discuss the events of the day, informing the audience that they would not only be performing, but they would also be answering any questions throughout the show. League told listeners they would accept questions on any topic and also that each guest could direct his or her own questions to any of the band members.

Afterward, guests were treated to numerous melodic tunes by the band. Between each song, band members answered questions and shared each of their personal stories.

The band also discussed winning a Grammy for Best Rhythm and Blues Performance. League said over the span of the 10 years since the start of the band, they have played over a thousand gigs, made eight albums and traveled all over the world.

He also discussed how they built their fan base by creating albums and posting performance videos on the video streaming website YouTube.

According to Hattiesburg resident Daniel Garcia, the band originated in Denton, Texas. For more information check out their Facebook page or YouTube channel.