Paul Axtell – Growing up in a rock and roll family.
When did you know you had an interest in music?
I was around seven or eight. Two of my brothers were musicians and my mother was a singer. I started in middle school playing the trumpet and moved to the bass clarinet.
Are you currently in a band (or bands)?
Yes, I am currently a member of The Second Shot Band.
Who is your favorite musician or what musician influenced you the most?
My brother Dave Hlubek was my favorite musician. Dave influenced me a lot some in a good way and some in a not so good way. At least that is what our mom would say. 🙂 I had a lot of influences when it came to music. Lynyrd Skynyrd was huge for me also Aerosmith, Pat Travers, Steely Dan, Bob Seger, Bad Company and so many others.
Are there any specific memories or highlights of your career that you would like to tell us about?
Playing at the landing with The Second Shot Band and my brother sitting in with us and our mom being there. This was the first time that our mom had seen us perform together. Performing with the band that my brother founded (Molly Hatchet) was a big thrill for me. There are so many wonderful memories of other musicians that I have played with, I could go on forever. I have been truly blessed and continue to be.
What area bands or musicians are at the top of your list to go out to hear?
Big Engine, Smokestack, Julia Gulia, Those Guys to mention a few. There are a whole lot of talented musicians in this town, I love them all.
Do you have a favorite venue that you enjoy playing locally?
I loved playing the Florida Theater, Thrasher Horne Center, but I think my favorite is playing at the Seawalk Pavilion in Jax Beach.
Do you have any gigs coming up to tell our readers about?
The Second Shot Band will be playing at the Community First Music Festival this coming February.
What is the best way for musicians to network?
I believe going to see a band live and talking to the guys on break is the best way to network. The musicians are in their natural habitat and I believe everyone feels more comfortable opening up.
Are there any local venue owners/managers that you would like to rave about?
Cliff’s Bar and Whiskey Jax have always been real kind to us.
If you had a question you would like to ask another musician what would it be?
I guess it would be who influenced you to follow your dream?
Personal hobbies or interests? Family?
Boating, golf, working on my cars. I have two beautiful kids, a grandson and a precious, supportive fiance.
What’s the best thing for you about living on the First Coast?
I love everything about living here. The river, the beaches, the people and the small towns are just a few minutes away from wherever you are. I have lived in a few other places but there is nothing like home.
Where and how can folks learn more about you and/or your band?
You can check out our presence on social media by going to The Second Shot Band at this link.
Is there anything else that you want to tell everyone reading this?
Jacksonville has been so good to me. The people I have met and the friends I have made over my lifetime are truly a blessing to me. My hope is that everyone reading this is as blessed as I am.
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Mike is a native First Coaster 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.
