No-one plays the blues like Darren Watson. Over the better part of three decades he has developed a style that, while touching on all of the greats who inspired him, is personal, powerful and identifiably his own.
Watson gained national fame in the 80s as the young front-man and guitar-slinger for Smokeshop. The band made two albums, had several radio hits, opened for numerous international blues legends and toured tirelessly, earning Watson a place alongside the likes of Midge Marsden, Hammond Gamble and Rick Bryant as one of New Zealand's best blues interpreters.
Wellingtontonians can see Darren performing regularly at several bars throughout the 'soul' city.
Awards & Nominations:
1989 NZ Music Awards - Most Promising Male Vocalist
1990 NZ Music Awards - Top Male Vocalist
1993 Wellington Music Awards - Best Live Act
1996 Wellington Music Awards - Best Blues Artist
2003 NZ Music Awards - Best Roots Album 'King Size'
2008 International Songwriting Comp. 1st Place Blues.
2009 International Songwriting Comp. 3rd Place Blues.
2009 International Songwriting Comp. Hon. Mention.
2010 International Songwriting Comp. Hon. Mention
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