Wayne Ellis Watson Bio Wayne Ellis Watson is a professional musician, hailing from Indianapolis, Indiana. A songwriter of instinct, Wayne has a flair for writing catchy songs that leave the listener moved by the raw emotion in them. Although his roots are firmly placed in vintage rock and blues, he draws inspiration from many different lyrical and musical influences. Wayne's versatility is expressed, not only in his songwriting, but also in his performing. Wayne not only wrote and co-produced the tunes on "Risky Business," but played all the instruments as well, with the exception of Jay Thompson on harmonica. Wayne also wrote all the material and co produced “Second Helping”! A few of Wayne's other influences include, but are not limited to Robben Ford, Mike Stern, Jimi Hendrix, Johnny Winter, Jeff Beck, Eric Clapton, John Schofield, Dave Brubeck, and George Benson. With his unique talent for writing songs that connect with audiences with the very first listen, his 2012 "Risky Business" CD has received accolades in the blues community, co-produced with his long time friend and Music Mogul, Dave Watson. "Risky Business" was nominated and received the 2012 Best Produced CD by the Indiana Blues Society. As the Affiliate Chapter of the Blues Foundation, the CD went on to cross the threshold to compete internationally for the Blues Foundation Award, held in Memphis Tennessee. Wayne Watson followed up the following year by competing and winning The 2013 Blues Challenge held in Indianapolis at The Slippery Noodle! Considered a hired gun by his many peers, Wayne's guitar playing is innovative, soulful, and versatile. His vast experience and expertise of his trade are shown in his unique musical style. At this time in his musical career, Wayne has come to what some feel is his best efforts so far with "Risky Business" and now “Second Helping”. Wayne has played professionally in bands since 1972, at a variety of venues from Fundraisers, Corporate Functions, Local and Regional Venues, and Event Concerts. His repertoire includes blues, rock, jazz, variety, and country. He played jazz and variety with Wendy Reed Band for 14 years, Aberdeen Project, a, rhythm and blues funk band, and Powertrain, also rhythm and blues; the latter featured in Easy Rider Magazine shows. He has also performed with Skip & The LPs, Blues and Vintage Rock who for Wayne professes was a "back to my Roots" experience. Currently he will begin performing his new songs, which will showcase his current Blues endeavor CD, “Second Helping.” One high profile record label stated: "Wayne tells the story well, with good vocal pitches….very tastefully done with convincing vocal and good playing. With adept guitar playing, I was pleasantly impressed…” Alligator Records