Deadline and the Undertakers

Jul 14

There’s something so unifying about live music, which is why the Herd is highlighting artists and venues throughout the month of July that bring the #SongsOfSummer. Today, we’re highlighting a local group that takes us back with classic hits from the ‘70s and ‘80s: Deadline and the Undertakers. With some of the musicians playing together for over 30 years, the band has a deep-rooted passion for live music and performance that is truly unmatched. Keep reading to check out our conversation with the band’s lead vocalist, Rick Alexander.

Q: How did your performing journey begin?

A: Me [Rick Alexander], Dave Lemmonds, and David Smith were in Headline 30 years ago and we wanted to get back together to play some new stuff and old stuff, so we decided to regroup with a few new additions. One of the Undertakers (which is the horn section of our band), Jay Young actually played horns in Headline back in the day, and another member, Craig Lemmonds, is the son of Dave.

Q: What is your favorite part of performing?

A: There is nothing like playing with a bunch of really good musicians. Every time we play and the horns are playing out in front, it feels euphoric.

Q: What is your favorite instrument to incorporate into your music?

A: When we’re playing live, I really like horns, but it all depends on the song. Vocals and harmonies or a particular type of beat can add so much to a song too. Honestly, I like all of the instruments I can add, even the stuff I hardly play.

Q: What made you introduce the horn section?

A: 30 years ago, I was in a group called Headline, which inspired the name for Deadline. Our old band had an amazing horn section and we wanted to bring that sound back with the new group.

Q: Where did your passion for music originate?

A: Growing up, my uncle played guitar, and one Christmas my mom and dad bought my sister Nancy a ukulele. I just decided to pick those instruments up and see what I could do. I taught myself how to play instruments by listening to how they sounded and imitating them by ear. As far as singing goes, I would listen to records in my sister’s room and would try to sing exactly like the record. There was a time when all I wanted to do was to write music, record it, and just listen to it. I love the experience of going in and recording a new song. The process that takes place where you end up with this finished product, it’s a work of art– sonically.

Q: What is the most significant accomplishment of your music career?

A: Choosing to play with people better than me and that made me better, and learning things from really good musicians. I wrote two songs that made it on the Q95 [radio station] album, and they would play those on the radio. Out of the three albums Q95 did, I was on two of them. One was with Lifer and one was with Voices.**

**Lifer and Voices were previous bands that Rick was a member of.

Q: Why do you think live music is important?

A: It’s an event. When you listen to music, it’s usually a personal thing. But when you see a band play music live, it’s just a different deal. It’s fun and exciting. There’s a certain amount of pride in working on your music, showing people your work and seeing them respond really well.

Q: Is there anything else you would like to share?

A: Saturday, July 29, Deadline and the Undertakers are headlining at Artie Fest in Martinsville at the new amphitheater. Come check us out!

To keep up with Deadline and the Undertakers and their tour dates, follow them on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube, or visit their website.

Deadline members:

Rick Alexander- Vocals

Dave Lemmonds-Drums

David Smith- Keyboards

Jeff Lewis- Bass guitar

Rich Morpurgo- Lead guitar

Craig Lemmonds- Guitar/Percussion

The Undertakers (horns):

Jay Young- Sax/Horn arranger