New Bern ~ Music  and Jams

 

New Bern, NC~ The nice thing about this little city where I live is the music hub that has been cultivated over the past decade in and around town. It thrives because people know it’s alive. The purpose of this blog site is to shine a light on the music scene, no matter where I end up in North Carolina. We have a lot of talent that deserves recognition, which is why I hope to offer a little bit of that through my lens and with my words. My goal in spending time on this is to encourage people to support live music. When people are familiar with a band, they are more likely to attend, especially if they know when and where to be. Over the years, we have all been fooled by the lure of free Facebook promotions.

Creating and sharing an event does not help unless you proactively promote it through daily posts. Adding new pictures or videos can help, too. I hear and read comments all the time that confess, after the fact, “I didn’t see anything about this!” “Did anyone promote it?” “I never saw this advertised.”  The reason for this is that social media is not a one-and-done advertising channel. It’s a daily script that engages people. It’s just one more place you must apply yourself, and yes, work.

For bands that keep it fun and only gig on occasion, it’s not necessary to host a website, as Facebook is widely accessible and a good place to build a fan base. Case in point: when I reached out to Brooke White about the next piece, she mentioned in her reply that the band had a website, but let it lapse. That is because maintaining a site and social media pages is WORK!  You might not believe it, but this made sense to me because she also mentioned in her conversation that she wanted to keep it fun. When your band is not a corporation, there is no need to have website expenses. That being said, let’s dive into our local music scene this week.

Brooke White & The Black Sheep

I first heard about the next band about four, maybe five years ago, when the original drummer reached out to me about Brooke White and The Black Sheep. Back then, I wasn’t actively publishing the blog at the time. But, over the years, I have caught the band in snippets, as I am known to do, and I love them. Brooke White fronts this effort and brings the energy and punk groove needed for their shows. The rock quartet offers pop, alternative, and punk sounds. They are edgy and fun. I recently reached out to White to learn more about her band project.

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I asked her about the history of the band, and she told me, “In February 2021, Marc Bergmueller (drums) and Shem Applegate (lead guitar/bass) invited me to join them in forming a band. Marc was a member of my gym and had heard me sing while teaching an indoor cycling class. We added Joe Osenni as bass player in March, and “Brooke White and the Black Sheep” was born.

I told her I enjoy them whenever I catch them because they are distinct from most cover bands. White said, “We wanted to focus on 80s and 90s pop/punk and alternative music. We played our first official gig at the Garage in August of 2021. We played a variety of venues to include Tap That, the Garage, Freshwater Beer Company, Taps and Tackle, the Flying Fox, some private parties, and MumFest.”

As far as gigging around, Brooke told me, “We focus on one gig a month as we didn’t want this hobby to turn into a job, and since we all had busy work schedules, that made sense.”

Regarding the history of the band, White told me, “After Mumfest in 2023, Marc decided to leave the band. Joe, who works for CarolinaEast, spoke with Dawn Jarrett, who said her husband was a drummer. We met Jeff over a beer at the Garage and were very excited to bring his energy and expertise to the band. We officially welcomed him in April 2024. Jeff Jarrett, does IT for CarolinaEast, he is a powerhouse on the drums, and we were thrilled to get the band back on the live music scene.

Although I have seen both versions of the band, I have enjoyed the latest version more because I am back out here covering the scene. If you have not seen the band yet, mark your calendars, White said, “Our next gig is at Pinky’s on April 4, 2026. The band is taking a short break as bassman Joe recovers from knee surgery. In the meantime, White wanted everyone to know they welcome all opportunities.

“We are always looking to play new venues and prefer to play outdoors since we know we can be a loud band with lots of energy! Venues can always reach out to me, Brooke White, on Facebook Messenger or via email at Brooke@soundfit.net.

The Scallywags Band

I met the Scallywags Band of New Bern a few weeks ago. This quartet of classic rockers has a way of infusing the blues into the mix. They are a refreshing band that is fairly new to the scene. These music-loving friends got together about three years ago to play around and just recently broke out of the garage to play publicly for friends and fans.  They were well received at The Pointe Restaurant on their maiden public appearance.

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The band is managed by its founding member, Mike Upchurch, who is a local guitar teacher, songwriter, writer, web developer, and performer. I met Upchurch for the first time in January and wondered how I had missed him for so many years. In The Scallywags, Upchurch plays the rhythm guitar, leads on vocals, and writes the band’s original material. I captured “Fight the Good Fight” at their debut gig in New Bern, NC.

After their gig, someone from one of the neighborhood groups said this on my post, “For all that missed this group Thursday, January 29, 2026, you missed out on the most outstanding new group to perform in FFH in my memory. They played to a full house and kept us entertained in two fantastic sets.” I have to agree with Rich, it was fun. Not only do The Scallywags offer a good mix of music, but they deliver it in their own fashion.

Joining Upchurch on vocals and lead guitar is Scott Beliveau; behind the kit, Mark Weaver keeps the beats and provides harmonies, and Dave Hebert is on bass and offers supporting vocals as well.  I was going to reach out for an interview, but I looked up the band’s webpage on Upchurch’s website and decided to share what I learned. The band’s foundation began when Beliveau reached out to Upchurch to see about getting together to brush up on his guitar skills.

It turns out that Upchurch taught Beliveau guitar lessons while he was growing up. After putting down the six strings for a couple of decades, he dusted them off, remembered the joys of music-making, and reached out to his mentor and friend, Mike. They started jamming together on Sundays in 2017 and were getting it together around the time Covid hit. Though that slowed the train, it did not stop it. In 2022, they decided they might sound better with a rhythm section, which led them to acquire the rest of the Scallywags.

Now that the classic rock and original band are up and running and gig-ready, they are seeking more opportunities to play around town and the region. If you are planning a party or have a stage seeking new talent, just call 252-474-3990 for information, availability, and rates. This four-piece band comprises seasoned players with an extensive song list for audiences to enjoy. For fans of local live music looking for a new band to catch, be sure to check in with The Scallywags of New Bern in New Bern when they perform at The Brown Pelican on Saturday, March 14, 2026 (PI day). Music and fun 6-9 pm. In April, they will perform at Bogue Sound Distillery on Saturday, April 4, 2026, with music from 7-10 pm. 

 

Wailin’ Maylon

Wailin’ Maylon was the name billed as performing live at The Flying Fox a few weeks ago when I stopped in. This country picker has a strong voice and solid guitar skills. Roy Stewart is the man on the other side of my lens, and I was glad to make his acquaintance. Following his show, I reached out to him with a few questions to learn more. 

When I asked where he hailed from, he said, “I am a native of Johnston County and have lived there my entire life, except for a short stint in Nashville (less than a year).” I wanted to know how long he had been playing, knowing immediately that he was no novice, and who his biggest influences were. He told me, “I’ve been playing for 35 years. I have been playing professionally for 34 years, but only because I started with my father, who was my way into the music business and my number one influence. I am a Jr. So he gave me his music and his name. Merle Haggard and Travis Tritt were big influences individually.”

Stewart went on to say, “I am a band guy at the end of the day. Skynyrd and the Allman Brothers have to be in the influence pile. My true passion is being a sideman (lead guitar/harmony singer) and backing an artist that gives me some improv room. These days, those gigs are hard to come by, enough to stay busy anyway, so solo work has been my go-to for the last 3-4 years.

My original music is available on most major platforms by searching for my God-given name, Roy Stewart. I go by Wailin’ Maylon for my gigs that require cover songs, just to keep the two entities separate. Maylon is my middle name, and a review years ago noted that I “wailed” when I play and sing.

After browsing his linktree, I learned more about the artist. According to his Wix site, Roy has shared bills with many National Acts.  Recently, Roy backed up his buddy Jonathan Parker, and they opened for the Legend David Allen Coe, and another show for Coe’s fellow Texas road dogs Cody Jinks and Dale Watson.  He has been a first-call guitarist/sideman in eastern NC for years and spent 10+ years as a frontman for his own projects. During that span, he had the chance to open for many more artists, including Toby Keith, Keith Urban, Kenny Chesney, Rascal Flatts, Jeff Bates, Sammy Kershaw, Billy Currington, Steeldrivers, Derailers, Emerson Drive, Keith Anderson, and Josh Gracin.

Roy looks forward to sharing his brand of music with you. To discuss bookings, call (919) 631-8156. He is seeking more opportunities around the New Bern area, so please reach out today if you are seeking a strong country act, band, or a solo stringer. Though I caught his solo show, he is interested in returning to the DoubleTree and bringing his full band to the area. Last week, he played with Wailin’ Maylon and The Failures for a Valentine’s Day gig in Lillington, NC. On the back of his business card, he highlights The Roundabouts. Regardless of the occasion, he is ready to bring the right tempo and vibe for your budget. 

Currently, Stewart is seeking to fill a few dates in March. If you need music, be sure to reach out to add this class act to your roster. For fans and friends looking for the country singer, you can find him this weekend at The 601 Bar on Friday, February 20, 2026. Music starts at 8 pm.

Open Mic at The Brown Pelican

Last week, I stopped by The Brown Pelican for the new Open Mic Night. The new format is still hosted by Charlie Duzan and recorded by his friend Arnold Osborn. This was the first time I made it out since they revamped things. Offering 15-20-minute slots to performers who show up imposes term limits on performances, which was not part of the old format. This allows more performers an opportunity to play, and each act can leave with a recording of their performance to share with friends. I spent about an hour there last week, meeting some new acts and old friends.

For as long as I have known Arnold Osborn, I never heard him play solo until last Tuesday. Arnie has a one-man show and is available to schedule.  Following Osborne’s opening act, Mac and Mary made their bar debut. This duo is a church-humming, string-singing bluesgrass band that has never performed in a bar setting until last Tuesday. They were joyful and sweet, sharing bluegrass, gospel, and original music in their set.

Next to the stage was James Urban. I met Urban about two months ago when he showed up to jam at The Silo’s Restaurant, where Chris Daniels hosts the open mic each Wednesday, 7-10 pm. Urban is settling into the area and resuming music. He is the rare performer who is not on social media and is not yet promoting himself.  I asked him to set up a new email account for booking inquiries. I believe Urban will share the contact information soon. He is a solid stringer with a nice mix of music to share.

Before leaving that night, Joe Starr walked in with his offering of boiled peanuts.  Dan Jam Phillips (below) took to the stage to share some classic rock selections. I met Phillips in 2014, long before the blog was a thought. I have been discussing his shows for more than a decade. 

An interesting thing about Dan Jam is that he runs many of his shows much like an open mic. He invites friends to join him. I have seen him play solo, as a duo, and with a full-on jam band featuring a half dozen players. This classic rocker typically books duo gigs and performs with Scott Carlisle. The two six-stringers have been gigging together for about 9 years. Carlisle is a stinging guitarist with some impressive chops. He calls Kinston home and enjoys getting out to jam with Dan whenever he can. If you have not seen the duo, you can catch them TONIGHT! They will perform live at The Pointe Restaurant in Fairfield Harbour. Music is served with supper from 6-8 pm.

To bring this duo to your dinner crowd, reach out to Dan Jam Phillips on Facebook, or you can email him at dphill09@gmail.com. 

 

Friends from Around The Region Will Jam Around Town This Weekend

While working on the calendar pages, I was noting who was in town this weekend. I noted that our pubs and clubs will be filled with out-of-towners. Here is a quick list of music options to consider.

 

28 West Rolls in From Greenville on Friday Night

The rock/pop quartet from Greenville, NC, 28 West, will be rocking Pinkys Pub on Friday night, February 20, 2026. Catch them 7:30 -10:30 pm. This band features Wally Peterson on drums. For those who missed my piece on Peterson last week, I include the link this week.

 

Southern Hellcats arrive from Oriental and will Rox the Fox on Friday 

Everyone’s favorite rockabilly band Southern Hellcats will return to New Bern on Friday, February 20, 2026, to rock the folks at The Flying Fox. Music will be offered from 8-11 pm. Put on those blue suede shoes and come ready to dance. The trio of rockers will return next Friday, February 27, 2026, to turn Pinkys Pub on its ear again. Music is offered from 7:30-10:30 pm.  You’ll need to show id to enter, but there is no cover charge.

DIRT ROAD Band Flies into the Dirty Bird 

 I reached out to Cliff Lee, the founder of the Pamlico County-based DIRT ROAD Band. When I caught them late last year at the Pelican, I had a blast. I was pleased to hear they had another date when the Silver Creek Band played at The Brown Pelican last month. For those who like local band trivia, Sliver Creek Band is part of DIRT ROAD Band. 

To learn more about the band, I asked founding member Cliff Lee Sr. to share more. “DIRT ROAD Band is new on the local music scene. We started this project almost 2 years ago, and finally started playing gigs early last fall.” Lee said. “Growing up on the back roads of rural Pamlico Co., we wanted a country band that reminded us of our roots.” As for their set list, Lee said, “Our song selection blends classic ’90s country with modern country rock, featuring Southern grit.” He said, “We’re constantly looking for songs that people can relate to.  Songs that grab and excite the audience from the first note. Then there’s the classics no one else is covering.”

DIRT ROAD Band will be rocking The Dirty Bird on Saturday, February 21, 2026. Music starts at 7 pm and plays until 10 pm. Lee made it clear that we are currently seeking additional bookings in ENC and are excited about the upcoming ones. Interested parties can call or text him anytime at (828) 774 -1770.
Or just shoot him an email to pcdirtroad@gmail.com.

4 EverAll Comes Calling from the Crystal Coast 

If you missed falling in love for Valentine’s Day, you have a second chance. Head to New Bern on Saturday to catch the love bug when my friends Chris and Allie Whitaker come to share their songs. The duo, better known as 4EverAll, has a love for each other so deep that it truly is contagious. They share familiar songs and captivating originals. I have been blogging about this couple for almost as long as I have been blogging. They were one of the first acts I met on my first trip “out of town” as a blogger. They are performing on the deck at the Dockside in Beaufort, NC. That was August, 2015.

Since then, I have written extensively about the couple and have become friends with them. This past summer, Chris and I spoke about uploading music for streaming. At the start of this year, Whitaker announced that the couple’s latest release is now available on all streaming platforms. When I read that, I looked up 4EverAll on Spotify.  Check them out now and get familiar with some of their music. Then head out this Saturday to see their show at The Flying Fox. They will be rocking from 8-11 pm. 

Cove City’s Packhouse to Pack The House at Pinkys Pub

For all those who have been wondering if there will ever be a band that puts Cove City on the map?  I am here to say, perhaps PACKHOUSE will.

 

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Packhouse has become one of my favorite bands on the scene lately because I enjoy the freshness of their tracks. They take all the jam styles available and blend them together to offer a fresh take on popular songs you know, but wait until you hear the original music. It’s a treat. For a sample of what I am saying, you can find the band at Pinkys Pub this Saturday, offering jam sandwiches from 7:30-10:30 pm. 

 

Editor’s Note

 

Thank you for reading this blog. Please leave a comment below so I know you’ve been here. I appreciate every like and share that helps get this music blog out to more people. I do this to shine a brighter light on the local music scene in North Carolina. With so many talented players throughout the state, it’s my personal mission to highlight the local live music scene. If you enjoy the work I am doing and wish to contribute, I accept PayPal or Venmo, or you can also find me on Cash App ($TraceyStonesProd). Thank you in advance. I always appreciate the support.

Next week, we talk about my impromptu birthday bash this past Tuesday, new talent, and we will take off on a few adventures. I am looking forward to meeting with my colleagues at NC Band and Clubs, Lawrence Tibbetts and his wife, Tracy, aka LT and TL!  We are planning a fun working weekend along the coast. This lovely couple is working on creating a nonprofit to support live music. I have joined the board as their secretary and look forward to assisting them in their shared music support goals.  I hope to see you out on the dance floor soon.

If you are a band in need of promotional materials, please consider hiring me. I offer press agent skills. I can develop webpages for bands that don’t want to host their own sites. We can advertise your upcoming events here and more. Tracey Stones Productions is the business that publishes this blog and also offers services for live music venues and musicians. Thank you for your consideration.

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