Today we’d like to introduce you to Alan Vaughan.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I have sung and played music all my life, in England and the US, and have led several bands. When I arrived in Marietta from England in 2000, I was charmed and somewhat fascinated by the local legend that is “The Big Chicken”. I had decided to create a band that plays Beatles music exclusively and was looking for a name. When I read that there was a men’s chorus called The Big Chicken Chorus, I thought, why not a Big Chicken Beatles Band! It is certainly memorable, includes a well-known landmark that is a little odd and a little unique, and of course, The Beatles in the name guarantees its own fame. I love that it makes people smile, and the logo opportunities are fun as well.
We worked hard on the Beatles material and have become known as rather good and faithful reproducers of some of the finest music ever written and recorded. We always keep a fun element in our performances while being very professional. After all, it was the Beatles own irreverent charm that endeared them to the world as much as their outstanding music.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
One of the most-often asked questions we get is whether we are afraid of either The Beatles or KFC suing us. The answer is absolutely not! I certainly would welcome either, as that kind of publicity could definitely raise our profile! Apart from that, it’s clear that the term “Big Chicken” is a locally-created one and not a brand name. It is in the public domain. The Big Chicken itself (that is, the manager) has been very supportive and open to publicity events – although so far, city red tape and fees seem to complicate that idea.
The only other real challenges are the same ones that any band faces – getting the right personnel, rehearsing, booking gigs, promotion, etc. The band has undergone several personnel changes, but always it’s talented musicians who love Beatles music!
Please tell us about The Big Chicken Beatles Band.
Our business is quite straight-forward: we play Beatles music. We aren’t a bar band, we play public and corporate events. These have included the Queen’s Birthday at the British Consul’s residence, British Car Fayre, Coca-Cola international Asian Business convention and New Years Eve concert at the Earl Smith Strand Theatre in Marietta Square two years in a row, among many others.
We have built a reputation as a quality Beatles band that provides fun entertainment for diverse audiences, and we strive to maintain that standard!
Do you look back particularly fondly on any memories from childhood?
I have so many. In context with the BCBB, I shall always remember having been one of an elite few who was present at The Beatles very last public performance. That was on the rooftop of the Apple building in London, in January 1969.
My mum, my sister and I were on our way to the orthodontist (of all places) and emerged into the street below as they were performing Don’t Let Me Down. The experience was of a muddy-sounding song bouncing around between buildings, and everyone looking up. We also looked up… but there was nothing to see of course. They were on top of the building, and out of sight of those down below. My mum was a little nervous about it all and hurried us along and on to the appointment. 🙂
Pricing:
- BCBB T-shirts – $15
Contact Info:
- Website: http://bigchickenbeatlesband.com
- Phone: 770.899.2922
- Email: avmuso@yahoo.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheBigChickenBeatlesBand
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