Scott Slay
By Jeff Maisey
Sensational Americana artist Scott Slay will say farewell in Norfolk on Saturday, February 28, when he and his family move to the Washington, DC metro area.
For nearly four years, local fans of new grass, roots music have been treated to some exceptional pickin’ and jammin’ whether Scott Slay was plucking away on his mandolin on an open mic night or with his complete band, Big Virginia Sky, which often featured award-winning, nationally acclaimed banjo player, Sammy Shelor of Virginia’s famed Crooked Road scene.
Before Scott Slay departs, I asked him to answer a few questions.
When and why did you move to the Hampton Roads region?
My wife was in the Navy; we met when she was in school in Pensacola, FL in Summer 2011. I proposed to her in September and after she got orders to Norfolk the same month, we moved.
What was your first impression of the area and its music scene?
My first impression was that the music was completely spread out and there was no fluidity to the different artists. No one collaborated.
Once settled in Norfolk, how did your view of the local music scene evolve?
It changed from separation to a positive environment of collaboration and willingness to learn from one another. I remember submitting inquiries to multiple musicians when I arrived asking to play for free on the side just to get some experience. The only one who accepted was Karl Werne.
Were you able to accomplish what you wanted here in Norfolk?
After playing with Karl, he set me up with some of his connections and I used that to build a few open mics and network using social media. This grew a network that everyone could be a part of.
What would you say are the greatest strengths of Norfolk’s music scene?
I leave Norfolk with humility. I feel like I was in the right place at the right time. I met people I feel blessed to know and I’ve played with some amazing musicians. I’m not sure accomplished is as much the adjective I’d use as much as thankful.
Big Virginia Sky: Scott Slay (pictured bottom left), Sammy Shelor (bottom right)
Did you think turnout to Big Virginia Sky shows was strong as it should have been when Sammy Shelor was in the lineup?
Yes and no. I don’t think as many people realize what a big deal Sam is. Sam won’t even admit to it. I grew up listening to his albums, so I know everything he’s done. But as far as the general public goes, playing as a sideman sometimes has its downfalls.
Will Big Virginia Sky’s current lineup continue?
Big Virginia Sky will continue with the same lineup. We all lived in several different places before so nothing will really change. We’re currently working on an album which is due in the Fall and released a track off of that album today actually. We intend to continue as we started. I can’t imagine playing with anyone else to be honest.
What are your plans moving forward?
My plans are to join the community of musicians in DC, but I will still frequent this area. I love the people and I have many friends here.
Are you going to live in DC, northern VA or Maryland?
My wife and I are still searching for the best location. We’ve looked in several places but ideally we’d love to find a shoebox in the arts district in DC or just outside of it in Maryland.
Where are your next local shows?
I’m playing at the Grilled Cheese Bistro on Thursday from 6-9pm. I have a going away party on Saturday night from 7-11 graciously hosted by The Parlor on Granby with an open mic/jam session feel. We’ll have a PA set up and will be doing a lot of jamming and picking. It’s open to the public and I’d love a great send off.
