I first met Spade McQuade at Fly’s Tie in Atlantic Beach when he had a weekly show there. All of the fans in the room would sing along to every song they played and it was just absolute fun from start to finish. I kept going up there and week after week it was many of the same songs, and ALL of the same people, but every week they all sang along! If you go see Spade don’t be shy about offering to buy him a drink! – Mike Kaufmann
How long have you lived at the First Coast?
24 years ago I moved to Jax from Belfast Ireland
What part of First Coast do you reside now?
Mayport
When did you know you had an interest in music?
I got my first guitar for my birthday when I was 15
Did you start with any specific instrument and migrate to other instruments?
Bass, Mandolin and Guitar
Are you currently in a band (or bands)?
Spade McQuade Band
Who is your favorite musician or what musician influenced you the most?
Van Morrison also from Belfast.. got to tour with him
Are there any specific memories or highlights of your career that you would like to tell us about?!
My old band Energy Orchard signed to MCA records in 1990 and we put out 5 albums and did several worldwide tours
What area bands or musicians are at the top of your list to go out to hear?
Trevor Tanner.. Glass Camels
Do you have a favorite venue that you enjoy playing locally?
Flys Tie… Lynch’s Irish Pub
Do you have any gigs coming up to tell our readers about?
Check our schedule at spademcquade.com I have various gigs every week
What is the best way for musicians to network?
Jamming at gigs .. open mics
Are there any local venue owners/managers that you would like to rave about?!
Ralph Tiernan .. Damien Doherty
If you had a question you would like to ask another musician what would it be?
Any chance of a beer lol!
- About the Author
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Mike has lived on the First Coast his entire life and was a leading figure in surfing and skateboarding for most of his life. After promoting music for many years on the local music scene, Mike now brings a unique perspective to FirstCoast.Life as a contributing writer.
