Separate work and love? Susan Tedeschi and Derek Trucks don't give a damn. The two blues stars merged their bands because of the children - and became a top act.
With their earthy mix of blues, soul and country, the Tedeschi Trucks Band is one of the old-fashioned groups on the music scene. At least as far as their sound is concerned. The duo's history, however, is rooted in a highly modern chapter. After all, the band started out with a child or career conflict - as many working couples know it.
Of course, Susan Tedeschi (46) and Derek Trucks (38) are not your everyday parents. Both the Boston-born guitarist and her husband were already established stars on the blues scene and enjoyed success before they joined forces. But the birth of their children forced Tedeschi to take a break from the stage 15 years ago.
"At some point, however, the desire to go full throttle live again became too great," Tedeschi tells SonntagsBlick. In 2009, she went on tour with her husband and other musicians. This was followed by a joint concert series. This worked so well that the Tedeschi Trucks Band was formed, a blues rock super group with two band leaders and a dozen top-class accompanying musicians.
Twelve musicians, one goal: good sound
Tedeschi says the talent that comes together in this band is "insane". It wasn't always easy at the beginning. In the meantime, egos have been replaced and the musicians also harmonize on a personal level. "A twelve-piece band in which everyone pulls together is unusual, and we are absolutely aware of that."
But it still needs a boss. For Tedeschi, the roles are clearly divided: "Derek is the boss on stage. But I'm in charge at home, at least as far as the kitchen and household are concerned." Life as a married couple on tour is a challenge. Not least because she needs her space as an artist. Doesn't that lead to friction? "Derek and I see a lot of each other, that's true. But we have found a way to pursue our passion as a couple with children. It's a privilege worth working for."
The audience is also rewarded. The band's concerts are full of energy and brilliance, as can be heard on the new live album "Live from the Fox Oakland". Tedeschi: "We often let ourselves drift on stage, not knowing where the journey will take us. But it's like anything else: I trust my husband - it all works out in the end."
