One of the greatest struggles for any band trying to make it is their financial position:  CD production, distribution costs, touring expenses, gear and PA systems.

But since sweeping Fuel 90.3 FM’s 2009 Rock Star Competition, totalling $220,000 in prize money, the members of Frankie McQueen, have gained a little breathing room, able to now focus on their music without having to worry about their expenses — at least for a little while.

“It didn’t even sink in for about a month,” says Scott Charles, Springbank native and lead vocalist/rhythm guitarist for Frankie McQueen.

“It happened when I was able to walk into a guitar shop and ask for the guitar I’ve wanted since I was a kid (a Gretsch Black Phoenix) and walk away with it, that suddenly I realized we have a lot of money in the bank.”

While the boys released their debut EP last May, the band wants to get back into the studio and re-record some of their original tracks, along with some new material and are looking to tour and hit summer festivals.

Frankie McQueen is a four-piece ensemble of driven musicians, all under the age of 25. The band began its modest beginnings in a basement filled with ideas, energy and an undisputed mutual love of music. Band members include:  Scott Charles on lead vocals/rhythm guitar, Devan Forster on lead guitar/back-up vocals, Kelly O’Keefe on bass and Connor Muth on drums.

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The crew began two and a half years ago with a heavy rock feel and a good dose of grunge. Since then, the band has expanded their taste buds and sound.

“We’re really rocky, kinda grunge, but now we’re getting into blues and jazz – still with a prominent rock feel,” said Charles.
Major influences include rock giants Led Zeppelin and Black Sabbath.

But as the band gets deeper into the blues, some of the fathers of that genre — like Muddy Waters and Robert Johnson — have a direct impact on the band.

“We just wanna make music and play it for everybody,” said Forster.

“We’re at a point where we’re all committed to the band so we’re just gonna go for it.”

In the meantime, the band is feeding off the energy of their growing fan base, tearing their way through bars across the city of Calgary.

You can catch Frankie McQueen at Broken City in Calgary Jan. 15.

For more info, go to their MySpace page —  myspace.com/frankiemcqueen.

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