Trent Schmiedge, singer and guitarist for the Blue Mules always envisioned having his own blues band. There were many forks in the road of the journey; however, with the perseverance of the band’s namesake, things came together just as they should.
“Music has been a way of life for a long time,” says Trent. “After many years of taking private lessons I began teaching guitar. I then attended the U. of S. where I studied music. Classical guitar, vocal and concert choir were the focus. I attended the School of Fine Arts for two summers again studying guitar. I studied Jazz at Grant McEwan in Alberta and did a brief stint in broadcasting. Then I hit the road for many years of touring but the bands I toured with had trouble reaching their goals.”
Throughout the next several years Trent shifted his focus toward starting his own booking agency. This involved a great deal of time which delayed the start of the band. So goes life, however the lessons learned during those years were invaluable and he believes they led to the birth of the Blue Mules. Everything happens for a reason.
The Blue Mules are three guys who love to play music! If a genre had to be chosen it would be the “The Blues”, however, the band is so much more with foot stomping energy, a groove and searing guitar tone that cannot be denied.
The band recorded their debut CD, “The Blues Ain’t that Bad”, at Fame Machine Studio. Earl Pereira, of the Steadies and former Wide Mouth Mason member, produced, mastered, mixed and tweaked growls, thumps and sweet tones for the Blue Mules. The album was released late summer of 2013 on Dynasty Records, with distribution through HMV and FYE stores across North America and digital distribution through CD Baby.
As the album title says, the blues ain’t always that bad! The release has awarded the band significant airplay including CBC Saturday Night Blues with Holger Petersen, CKUA, CJSW in Calgary, CKUW in Winnipeg and CFCR in Saskatoon. With over 100 radio stations in 10 countries giving airtime to each song on the release, it’s no surprise they can also be heard on such radio staples as Confessing the Blues with Cleve Baker and At the Crossroads with Brant Zwicker.
This release and recognition has enabled the band to perform with such favorites as David Wilcox and Omar and the Howlers as well as opening for The 24th Street Wailers at Saskatoon Jazz Fest in June of 2014.
With a long list of club performances and festivals booked throughout the year, The Blue Mules are sure to be on a stage near you.
