Legends Bar and Grill in Hamilton, Ohio was destroyed by a fire last August. It should re-open in another month. The Marathon Music Showcase/ Fundraiser for Legends Bar and Grill will be held on Sept. 15 at Froggy’s in Monroe, Ohio. The benefit will help will help Legends Bar and Grill restock so they can re-open. Don Pruett will be one of nearly 30 musical acts to perform.
When did you start singing? I started singing in front of people about a year ago, but I was writing a bunch of stupid songs for a few years before that.
How would you describe your music? I call it gonzo country. It’s kind of country and kind of folk and sometimes neither of those things.
Who are your musical influences? I really love Todd Snider and John Prine. Anyone who can get away with being really clever in their songs, really.
What is your favorite concert you have attended? Last year I saw Willie Nelson with Old Crow Medicine Show and Sturgill Simpson opening for him.
What made it memorable? I had a religious moment at the beginning of “Always On My Mind” and lost my mind watching Sturgill play guitar.
What is your favorite place to perform? What do you like about it? The Hitching Post in Darrtown. It’s the first place I played and the people I’ve met there are like family.
Other than artists, who has been influential in your decision to become a singer? My family and friends have all been really encouraging. Also listening to a bunch of Bill Hicks and Alan Watts kind of gave me the push to really pursue it.
What was the first song you wrote? The first country song I wrote was a joke song called “Thinkin Bout Trux” but the first good song I wrote is called “That’s the Way She Goes.”
What is your favorite original song? What was the inspiration behind it? I have a song called “Folk Songs Don’t Pay the Bills” that has a bunch of clever wordplay and also serves as kind of a declaration of what I think music should be.
Anything else you would like to add? I have a Facebook page at facebook.com/donpruettmusic
Where can people hear your music? People can hear my music on that Facebook page for now.