By Kate Bartlett
Renowned Buffalo based southern soul band Miller and the Other Sinners will play for the first time at the 4th annual HillTAP Festival at Holiday Valley on Saturday, July 27th at 4pm. The band is known for their southern soul blend inspired by Memphis soul, gospel spirit, and funky rhythm and blues. The group puts on an unforgettable show filled with catching songs and tremendous energy that gets to the crowd.
David Miller founded the band in 2015 while recording his solo album Poisons Sipped. “It happened by chance,” recalls David. Members of the world-famous Campbell Brothers and a small ensemble of talented musicians came together to form “Miller and the Other Sinners.”
The group originally consisted of rotating members, but has recently maintained a steady 3-5 members over the past 5 years: Isaiah Griffin on drums, Steve Davis on bass and keys, Dalton Sharp on saxophone and Paul Gaspar on trumpet. Founder David sings lead vocals and guitar in addition to writing their original songs.
David was inspired by music at a young age as he grew up around music in the church in the Alle-gheny County area. He sang gospel music and played piano around 6 years old, and began playing guitar and writing songs at age 11. “The energy from the music was powerful; it was contagious,” recalls David. “I loved playing and I couldn’t get enough.”
His one grandfather was an evangelist speaker, and David toured with him in churches and tents around Long Island and New Jersey. David played music and recorded cassettes to sell to the crowd, gaining experience playing for different crowds at the young age of 12. He played saxophone in school band between 5-12th grade and was in various Christian bands throughout High School in Fillmore, NY. He got into rock music as a junior, and began to appreciate heavy Seattle grunge music in college. These various music genres shaped David into who he is as an artist today. “I was finding my way as a musician, exploring different styles and sounds and gained a deeper appreciation for all music.”
After he got married in 1989, David took a step back from music to focus on raising his family and a more stable career. “Music never left my life; it was always a passion of mine and a hobby during this time.” David had 2 sons Joshua and Matthew with his wife, Laura, and worked as a worship leader/youth pastor and eventually in his own software business in Clarence, NY. David instilled an appreciation for music in his children, and they also began playing at a young age. He started a blues band, Beautiful Bones, with his son Joshua when he was 15, along with his nephew Nick Peterson on bass. “I love making music with my boys,” says David. “Josh and I occasionally play gigs to this day.”
David worked in his church as a youth pastor and furthered his music in the church. “At this time, the church was strict about music staying in the church, which I wasn’t sure I agreed with. I began to reevaluate as felt pulled to bring music outside the church.” He focused on songwriting and produced 2 albums under his name.
David become a well-known and respected artist in the WNY music community, having shared the stage with Gary Clark Jr., Steve Miller Band, Tedechi Trucks Band, Shemekia Copeland, Govt Mule and many more.
While recording his second album, Miller and the Other Sinners was born 8 years ago. While the group has evolved over the years, it has stayed true to its soulful roots. Since August of 2015, they have performed over 1300 shows across 26 states (and Canada) playing festivals, parties and other events. On June 27th, Miller and the Other Sinners were set to open for Los Lonely Boys in Rochester; however, they were called up to play as the headliner when the band cancelled. “It was such a great opportunity; we had a great time playing on that stage. The crowd energy was contagious.”
For the first time, Miller and the Other Sinners will be playing at HillTAP on the slopes of Holiday Valley in Ellicottville on Saturday, July 27th. “We’re looking forward to the show,” says David. “Ellicottville is such a great community; the energy there is great.” The group will also play at the Fairport Music Festival for their 7th year in August.
The Sinners have released 3 albums 3 Nights at the Strand, Rise and Thives In The Breadline, re-cently on April 1st making their original music more accessible. David remains inspired to create music and finds inspiration in various ways. David has been influenced by old blues and 70’s soul music, but also finds inspiration in great artists. “I’ve always been inspired by great musicians, like Bill Withers and BB King; but there’re so many young artists too. It’s great to hear new sounds by these incredible songwriters and musicians.”
David finds inspiration in everyday life, but frequently writes music during long drives. “I write my best songs on long drives, just jamming out on the open road. Life grants us so many great oppor-tunities and experiences, and I love putting them into song.” He has been working on his solo al-bum, which is anticipated to be released this upcoming fall. The sound is influenced by Roots Americana.
David enjoys being active in the music community and serves as an ambassador for Three Chord Bourbon, a company founded by Pat Benatar’s husband, Neil Giraldo, supporting live musicians. He has also collaborated with 42 North recently with similar efforts to keep live music live. “Its always helpful to have brands that believe in live music collaborating on special events.
For more information visit https://www.millerandtheothersinners.com/ and https://threechordbourbon.com/. See the band live at HillTAP with tickets available at https://www.hilltapfestival.com/.