Members
Ronald "Poncho" Hedrick
Jumbo Shrimp
Brian Weir Harden
Jerry Gates
Solar P
Stacia Murphy
About
For an exciting decade, the ultra hip urban Blackberry Jam (BBJ) has maintained its position as one of the upholders of Indianapolis’ rich soul-funk heritage. Their well crafted sound has grown into a musical movement only few bands have achieved.
Founded in the late fall of ’96, by the original bass player and leader Ronald “Poncho†Hedrick Blackberry Jam has been honored with countless opportunities playing at elite local venues throughout the band's existence as well as out of town shows. The band has gained the respect of its peers for consistently being an original outfit while not neglecting to spice up their shows through covering material from other artists they admire. These are just some of the reasons why Blackberry Jam has such staying power.Â
Although Blackberry Jam is almost usually associated with Poncho, the founder, all the people who are and have been affiliated with BBJ remain, playing very critical roles in maintaining the band's movement, sound, and culture and for who?...the people.
Blackberry Jam has enjoyed opportunities opening for up national recording artists such as Van Hunt (Blue Note), Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings, and backing up the talented and also very urban and popular Lina (Mercury). The core of the band is now comprised of like-minded members who share in the vision and love for the BBJ movement. These members have bought into the system and continue to work passionately to produce quality and meaningful material.
Blackberry Jam has an ongoing partnership with quite a few supporters, promoters, and other professional and culturally motivated minds. The band has played diverse shows from family parties to large clubs and college universities to festivals with several thousands in attendance. The group has been fortunate enough to be blessed with great opportunities and supporters; reflected in BBJ's sound and message.