Big Sam’s Funky Nation is a driving force of urban funk. Ryan White, of the Oregonian, says the band is “tight enough (and hot enough) to turn coal into a diamond!” The band is led by trombone powerhouse, Big Sam Williams, formerly the trombonist for the Dirty Dozen Brass Band, who the San Francisco Chronicle calls “the top man on the slide trombone in the birthplace of jazz.” Big Sam refuses to let the audience sit still. Between the band’s solos, Big Sam’s signature dance moves and his distinctive trombone riffs, the energy level is high voltage when this band takes the stage!

The Funky Nation is a stellar group of world-class musicians who meet the challenges of their funky band leader. The band is comprised of Andrew Baham on Trumpet/Vocals/Keys, Takeshi Shimmura on Guitar, Chocolate MILK on Drums, and Eric Vogel on Bass in addition to Big Sam on Trombone/Vocals. BSFN’s signature Noladelic Powerfunk sound masterfully combines a rock sensibility with improv-style associated with jazz and the horn-heavy front section that’s the hallmark of big band funk.

Big Sam began playing with the Dirty Dozen at the tender age of 19 before striking out on his own and creating the Funky Nation. Big Sam powered-up the horn section on the critically acclaimed, Grammy nominated, “River in Reverse” and is prominently featured in "Hot as a Pistol, Keen as a Blade" the concert tour DVD. While touring with Elvis Costello and Allen Toussaint, in the Fall of 2006 and Summer of 2007, he earned consistent reviews as a musical force and star soloist. Big Sam has played with Karl Denson’s Tiny Universe, Dave Matthews, Ozomatli, and Widespread Panic. He has also shared the stage with U2 and Green Day for the emotional and energetic re-opening of the Superdome which was broadcast live on Monday Night Football.

BSFN is a festival favorite across North America and their contagious tunes and memorable live performances have attracted fans far and wide, ranging from France, to the United Kingdom, to Greece, to Brazil, to Canada. BSFN is a favorite on the festival circuit and has sealed its mark on the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage, Gathering of the Vibes, Telluride Blues & Brews, Doheny Blues Festival, Austin City Limits, Bonnaroo Arts & Music Festival, Wakarusa, Voodoo Music Experience, Bear Creek Music & Arts Festival, LEAF & many more.

GREETINGS ROCK ON! CONCERT CRUISER!



Thanks for coming out and partying with us! We know of no other experience that rivals our awesome boat parties for unadulterated semi naked summer fun. We know you have a lot of choices for your entertainment dollars, so we are pumped you chose to rock out with us!

Rock On! Concert Cruises are on Mass Bay Lines and depart from Rowes Wharf at The Boston Harbor Hotel Atlantic Avenue – CRUISES ARE RAIN OR SHINE. There is $7 Parking @ INTERNATIONAL PLACE GARAGE across from the Hotel after 6pm, get your parking pass stamped at Box Office. By T, Red Line to South Station - it's 1/4 mile up Atlantic Ave or Blue Line to Aquarium - it's 1/4 mile down Atlantic Ave. Boarding Begins at 7:15 - BOAT DEPARTS AT 8pm SHARP. DON’T BE LATE!!! You do not want to be that guy/gal who watches the party float away. It's a cash bar so stop at an ATM machine on your way, light snacks and hot dogs available on the boat. Pick Up WillCall Tix at Mass Bay Lines Box Office Gate C behind the Boston Harbor Hotel. You will be subject to a SECURITY CHECK / LIGHT PAT DOWN outside drinks, flasks and contraband are not allowed. Drugs are Bad mmm'kay? Stick em where the sun don't shine or expect them to be confiscated.