July 9th, Retrophonics Studios - I replaced a rhythm guitar and added some parts on "The Way It Is"  and replaced the lead vocal. I replaced a finger picking guitar part on "In-Between" and tried to put a lead vocal on but it didn't happen. Also worked with Johnny on a song we are writing "Dark Clouds".  We didn't get to "Cowboy Song" but these will be the three we will complete first. I talked to Barry Dunaway and he is going to work up bass parts for "Making Rainbows" and " I Wish". It was a good day working with Jim and Johnny.

July 10th, Carpetbaggers DAVE and Sue at Hurricane Grill and Wings - Frankie was sick so it was the DAVE and Sue show. We were under cover, it rained a little but didn't stop us. Always fun playing with the Queen Bee. Besides Wednesdays we will be at Hurricane's July 20th and July 26th.

July 12th, 13th and 14th, DAVE at The Big Deck - I had a great weekend! Rick (Yoko Says No) and Trish showed up from Virginia. We missed Darlene!

It's going to be a busy week. I'm looking forward to the studio and getting together with Dan Bagan. I have some ideas to run by him. Thanks for letting me live my dream!!!  Keepin' It Real! -David

see you down the road!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
check out my upcoming performances here:
http://davidwattbesley.blogspot.com/p/schedule_31.html

Carpetbaggers Band 

The North Star Band 

 

July 3rd, Carpetbaggers DAVE, Sue and Frankie at Hurricane Grill and Wings - It was hot!!! But it was fun!

July 4th, DAVE and Sue at The World Famous Oasis Tiki Bar - Had a nice evening at the Oasis Tiki Bar! See you Saturday with Tony and Sue same place, same station!

July 5th, DAVE at Aunt Kate's - It was warm but fun playing on the porch by the water! See you Sunday 1 to 4pm!

July 6th, Carpetbaggers DAVE, Sue and Tony at The World Famous Oasis Tiki Bar - What a great night! Started out a little slow but man did it get going!

July 7th, DAVE at Aunt Kate's - It was another great afternoon on the porch by the water! Thanks Brian and staff you guys are the best!

I will be in the studio on Tuesday this week. Also hope to be with Dan Bagan doing our walk and working on some new ideas. Thanks for letting me live my dream!!! Keepin' It Real! -David

see you down the road!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
check out my upcoming performances here:
http://davidwattbesley.blogspot.com/p/schedule_31.html

Carpetbaggers Band 

The North Star Band 

June 24th, Retrophonics Studios - I put a bass track on "Remember Me". Johnny Medico and I sat with guitar and piano and worked up arrangements and ideas for two new tunes "The Best Of Times" and "Dark Clouds". Our first of many co-writes I hope.

June 26th, Carpetbaggers DAVE, Sue, Tony and Frankie at Hurricane Grill and Wings -  There was rain early so we set up under cover. It was a nice evening. See you next week!

June 27th thru July 2nd - I was off to Glacier Bay Lodge in Gustavus, AK Went to Gustavus, It was my birthday present from TT.  Thanks! We had a blast at the Glacier Bay Lodge where we stayed. I'm sure I will tell everyone about it as I see you. A trip to Alaska was on my bucket list. 

Glacier Bay

I had  a wonderful 70th birthday in Alaska. I'm excited to get back to work. Thanks for letting me live my dream!!! Keepin' It Real! -David

see you down the road!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
check out my upcoming performances here:
http://davidwattbesley.blogspot.com/p/schedule_31.html

Carpetbaggers Band 

The North Star Band 

June 17th, Retrophonics Studios - Jim, Johnny and I worked on "Front and Center" and "Remember Me". Johnny got both tracks on drums and I got a pretty good bass track on "Front and Center".

June 18th, Songwriter's Night at The World Famous Oasis Tiki Bar - Another fun one with Chelsea, Lauren and Bob. I wish I had felt a little better but it was still great to share the stage with these talented folks. Also finished another tune "Dark Clouds", that's two I have ready to record after we get a little farther along with Project #6.

Lauren, Chelsea, Bob, Dave

June 19th, Carpetbaggers DAVE, Sue, Tony and Frankie at Hurricane Grill and Wings - We had a great evening at Hurricane's, the rain stopped us once but we were able to finish our show. See you guys next week.

June 20th, OFF - I missed the walk and my studio session this morning with Dan Bagan. I'm feeling a little under the weather, but I still feeling a little rough went with TT and Brianna to watch Braylen's Allstar game in Macclenny, FL. They won!

June 21st, Carpetbaggers DAVE, Sue, Tony and Frankie at The St. Augustine Fish House and Oyster Co - We cancelled due to rain. We got soaked! At least they bought Frankie and Tony dinner for the band and equipment getting completely soaked. I will be sure in the future to pay closer attention to the forecast when asked to set up and play. You live and learn.

June 22nd, Carpetbaggers DAVE, sue, Tony and Frankie at Hurricane Grill and Wings - It's been crazy weather but it did not rain on us tonight. We were under cover just in case. I enjoyed hanging out with the band and playing some music. Thanks Abe, Albert, Slim and staff you guys are the best!

June 23rd, DAVE at Aunt Kate's - I had a nice hot afternoon out on the porch by the water! 

Looking forward to the studio this week. Also looking forward to our Alaska trip! Thanks for letting me live my dream!!! Keepin' It Real! -David

see you down the road!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
check out my upcoming performances here:
http://davidwattbesley.blogspot.com/p/schedule_31.html

Carpetbaggers Band 

The North Star Band 

June 3rd, Retrophonics Studios - Johnny Medico put drum tracks on three tunes today "Ride Like The Wind", "In-Between" and "The Way It Is". Jim DeVito, Johnny and I are starting to get ideas on what else we need on the Project #6 songs. 

June 4th, OFF - Finished up a new tune "The Best Of Times" will probably lay it down in two weeks. 

June 5th, Carpetbaggers DAVE, Sue, Tony and Frankie at Hurricane Grill and Wings -  It was a nice evening at Hurricane's until the rain at 7:30 pm. Stopped a little early see you next week!

June 6th, Bagan and Company - Dan and I did our walk and then worked on the liner notes for Project #6. I'm getting some ideas about re-releasing my first 4 solo cd's in one package.

June 6th, Carpetbaggers DAVE and Sue at The World Famous Oasis Tiki Bar - We had some rain but it was a blessing in disguise, it cooled it down some. 

June 7th, DAVE at Aunt Kate's -  I had a great evening out on the porch by the water! A little rain but it passed quickly. Thanks Brian and staff you guys are the best!

June 8th, DAVE a The Murray Bros. Caddyshack - It was a nice evening. I metg Bill Murray's brother Andy. Also a couple of wrestlers that were performing next door at the River City WWE  Convention 2024.

Big dudes with Dave from River City WWE

June 9th, DAVE at Aunt Kate's - There was no power, waited around for a bit but Brian found out it would not be until at least 2pm before it came back on, it was 11am so he said told me to go home. I was looking forward to playing and also hearing how my new speaker QSC sounded.

I'm looking forward to working with Jim and Johnny this week. We will be adding bass and drum parts on my new effort Project #6. Also had a zoom meeting with my North Star Band mates and we are starting to get moving on our new  project The North Star Band, Kick Ass Country. Dan Bagan and I are almost done with the layout for Project #6. Also need help from Brianna to solve a little problem, then we will soon be ready to have T-Shirts! Thanks for letting me live my dream! Keepin' It Real! -David

see you down the road!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
check out my upcoming performances here:
http://davidwattbesley.blogspot.com/p/schedule_31.html

Carpetbaggers Band 

The North Star Band 

June 10, Retrophonics Studios - Johnny Medico did drum tracks on "I Got Lucky" and "Cowboy Dream". I sent two tracks to Barry Dunaway "I Wish" and "Making Rainbows". I hope we cut bass tracks and drums to "Remember Me" and "Front and Center" next week.

June 12th, Carpetbaggers DAVE, Sue and Frankie at Hurricane Grill and Wings - Another hot, but great evening at Hurricane's. A little rain but not hard enough to stop us. See you next week!

June 13th, Bagan and Company - Dan and I did our walk and then worked on the layout for Project #6 and moved further along on the t-shirt design. 

June 13th, Carpetbaggers DAVE and Sue at The Press - Dinner was delicious and the show was fun. This is a place you want to try out!

June 14th, 15th and 16th, DAVE at The Big Deck Bar and Grill - It was a hot and rainy weekend, but always a good time in Cedar Key! Thanks Bryan, Darlene and staff you guys are the best! See you July 12th, 13th and 14th.

It has been a wonderful week. I'm looking forward to adding a couple bass and drum tracks this week at Retrophonics with Jim and Johnny. Thanks for letting me live my dream!!! Keepin' It Real! -David

see you down the road!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
check out my upcoming performances here:
http://davidwattbesley.blogspot.com/p/schedule_31.html

Carpetbaggers Band 

The North Star Band 

May 20th, Retrophonics Studios - I worked with Jim and Johnny again today. I did two bass tracks "Ride Like The Wind" and "I Got Lucky". We also cleaned up two tracks to send to Barry for possible low end reinforcement.

May 21st, Songwriter's Night at The World Famous Oasis Tiki Bar - It was a great night, Steve, Gary and Dan kicked butt! As usual Bob was the man! Thanks for supporting original music in St. Augustine! See you next month!

Steve, Dan, Gary, Bob, Dave

May 22nd -May 28th, DAVE at Coles Point Tavern - I am back home from another wonderful trip to the Northern Neck of Virginia. And once again it had it's moments. Thanks Ace, Randy, Chris and Ann, Mike, Sandy, Stacey and Sherry, Selisa and Steve. And to all my friends there, old and new that I see on my Memorial Day Weekend run at the tavern. See you in September!

May 29th, Carpetbaggers DAVE, Sue, Tony and Frankie at Hurricane Grill and Wings - It was a hot one, but a wonderful evening playing with the band. Thanks for supporting the Carpetbaggers every Wednesday at the grill. 

May 30th, Bagan and Company - Dan and I did our Thursday routine morning walk and then got down to business on the liner notes for Project #6.

May 31st, DAVE at Aunt Kate's - I had a nice evening out on the porch by the water!

June 1st, Carpetbaggers DAVE, Sue, Tony and Frankie at The San Sebastian Winery - It doesn't get any better than last night. Great crowd, great weather and a chance to play with a great band.

June 2nd, DAVE at Aunt Kate's - I had a great afternoon out on the porch by the water! Thanks Brian and staff you guys are the best!

Looking forward to getting together with Dan and working on the layout for Project #6. Thanks for letting me live my dream!!! Keepin' It Real! -David

see you down the road!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
check out my upcoming performances here:
http://davidwattbesley.blogspot.com/p/schedule_31.html

Carpetbaggers Band 

The North Star Band 

May 13th, Retrophonics Studios - I worked with Jim and Johnny this week on a new tune "Wake-Up" for my next project and put bass tracks on "The Way It Is" and "Cowboy Dream" for Project #6. All in all a good days work.

May 14th - We went out for sushi for Braylen's birthday at Corner Sushi out favorite. I started on a new tune "The Best Of Times".

May 15th, Carpetbaggers DAVE, Sue, Tony and Frankie at Hurricane Grill and Wings - It was a great evening playing with the band! Next week it will be Sue, Tony and Frankie. I will be in Virginia.

May 16th, Bagan and Company - First of  we walked and then worked on ideas for Project #6.

May 17th, Carpetbaggers DAVE and Sue at Tides and Oyster Bar -  I always enjoy playing this venue with Sue.

May 18th, DAVE at Caddy Shack - I had a great time, this is a cool place, great food. Thanks Scott and staff I had fun, see you June 8th.

May 19th, DAVE at Aunt Kate's - A little worried about rain but it turned out to be a beautiful day. Thanks JC and Noel for stopping by.

I'm looking forward to the studio this week. I"m going to get a couple songs ready for Barry Dunaway to listen to and maybe add some bass tracks. Thanks for letting me live my dream!!! Keepin' It Real! -David

see you down the road!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
check out my upcoming performances here:
http://davidwattbesley.blogspot.com/p/schedule_31.html

Carpetbaggers Band 

The North Star Band 

May 8th, Carpetbaggers DAVE, Sue, Tony and Frankie Hurricane Grill and Wings - I had some sound system problems so I spent 2 hours before the show sweating to fix the problem. I never got it completely figured out but working good enough to do the show. The band kicked butt I was just hanging in there. Thanks guys and gals.

May 10th, 11th and 12th, DAVE at The Big Deck - It was a great weekend! I saw Pete and Pat. See you next month June 14th,15th and 16th.

I'm looking forward to getting in the studio this week. Also hope I can get together with Dan I have some ideas I want to run by him while we do our walk. Thanks for letting me live my dream!!! Keepin' It Real!-David

see you down the road!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
check out my upcoming performances here:
http://davidwattbesley.blogspot.com/p/schedule_31.html

Carpetbaggers Band 

The North Star Band 

April 29th, Retrophonics Studios - I worked with Jim and Johnny putting down a couple bass tracks on Project #6 "In-between" and "Another Day". 

May 1st, Carpetbaggers DAVE, Sue, Tony and Frankie at Hurricane Grille and Wings - We had a great evening!

May 2nd, Carpetbaggers DAVE and Sue at The Oasis Tiki Bar - We had a nice crowd! I always enjoy playing with Sue, what a treat!

May 3rd, DAVE Aunt Kate's -I had a great Friday evening out on the porch! See you Sunday afternoon.

May 4th,  Carpetbaggers DAVE, Tony, Frankie and Geoff at San Sebastian Winery - Sue had a previous engagement so Geoff Perry took her spot. Geoff did a great job, he is very talented. We missed the queen bee though. 

May 5th, DAVE at Aunt Kate's - Another great afternoon on the porch by the water!

It was a busy week! Looking forward to a little rest the next couple days. No studio though I have a new tune to put down when I get back in. Thanks for letting me live my dream!!!  Keepin' It Real! -David

see you down the road!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
check out my upcoming performances here:
http://davidwattbesley.blogspot.com/p/schedule_31.html

Carpetbaggers Band 

The North Star Band 

April 22nd, Retrophonics Studios - Jim and I laid down the starting track for a song Chris McVey and I wrote many years ago "I Got Lucky". We also cleaned up "Remember Me", "Front and Center" and "Another Day".  

April 23rd, Bagan and Company - Dan and I walked then we worked on some cover ideas for The North Star Band's upcoming CD. Also worked on the back cover of my new Project #6 CD.

April 24th, Carpetbaggers DAVE and Frankie at Hurricane Grill and Wings - Frankie and I had a great night! Sue was out of town to pick up their new puppy and a gig or two. Tony booked another gig. That left just the two of us. Had a blast!

April 25th thru the 28th, The Seiners DAVE, Eddie and Frankie at Coles Point Tavern - We had a great couple days playing with The Seiners. It was good to see our Virginia friends. We were sad but proud to be there to say goodbye to Creeky an old friend of ours. Thanks Chris and Ann and all the great staff at the Tavern. A special thanks to Gary, Mike and Stacey who went beyond the call of duty to take care of us. It was a lot of driving but we made it home safe! I'll see you back here on May 23rd thru the 27th.

I had a great week put a lot of miles under my belt. Looking forward to the studio on Monday and getting together with Dan on Thursday. Thanks for letting me live my dream!!! Keepin' It Real! -David

see you down the road!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
check out my upcoming performances here:
http://davidwattbesley.blogspot.com/p/schedule_31.html

Carpetbaggers Band 

The North Star Band 

April 8th, Retrophonics Studios - Jim and I cleaned up "Another Day". Johnny Medico and Brother Ed showed up as I was laying down basic tracks for "Remember Me". I'd been thinking I would call Ed and see if he could put a mandolin part on the tune. Then he walked in, go figure. I will get him the rough to work on this week. Johnny took over the controls after we finished "Remember Me" and we started bass tracks for "Front and Center". I can't tell you how great it is working with Jim DeVito and Johnny Medico on this new effort Project #6.

April 10th, Carpetbaggers DAVE, Sue, Tony and Frankie at Hurricane Grill and Wings- We had a nice evening at Hurricane's. Frankie had a doctors appointment and was an hour late but he made it.

April 11th, Bagan and Company - Dan and I did our walk. Then we got to work and finished up the cover for Project #6.

April 11th, Carpetbaggers DAVE, Sue, Tony and Frankie at The St. Augustine Fish House and Oyster Co -The weather was terrible all day but as I arrived at the venue to set up the sun came out. We had a good show.

April 12th, 13th and 14th, DAVE at The Big Deck - I had a great weekend at The Big Deck. Bryan, Darlene and staff, as always, were the best! It was good to hang out with Dan and Susy Bagan on the other coast. See you next month!

Nice night at The Big Deck

I'm looking forward to getting into the studio. There's a lot to do around the house and I'm home all week. Thanks for letting me live my dream!!! Keepin' It Real! -David

see you down the road!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
check out my upcoming performances here:
http://davidwattbesley.blogspot.com/p/schedule_31.html

Carpetbaggers Band 

The North Star Band 

 

April 1st, Retrophonics Studios - Johnny, Jim and I worked on a new tune "In-Between" and Johnny put a drum track on "Another Day". We are 4 trips into the studio and have 5 tunes underway for my next solo project I'm calling, you guessed it  Project #6.

April 2nd, Not working today - I finished another tune "Remember Me". That makes 9 new songs I've written for Project #6. Tony and I wrote a new song for The Carpetbaggers next one called "The Last Word". I can't wait to get into the studio this week and cut it along with "Front and Center". 

April 3rd, Carpetbaggers DAVE, Tony and Frankie at Hurricane Grill and Wings - Man! The weather was terrible. Abe and Albert said to give it a try and it did worked out pretty good. I had a great time hangin' with Frankie and Tony. We missed Sue. Thanks for showing up in the rain everybody!

April 4th, Bagan and Company - We did what is becoming part of our Thursday morning routine, a walk before we start work in the studio.  We then continued on the design for Project #6.  

April 4th, Carpetbaggers DAVE and Sue at the Oasis Tiki Bar - I had a great night! Sue had some family in town. It was a nice time.

 April 5th, DAVE at Aunt Kate's - A great afternoon on the porch by the water! Thanks Brian and staff!

April 6th, Carpetbaggers DAVE, Tony, Sue, Frankie at San Sebastian Winery - It was pretty chilly but the show did go on. Thanks to all the great folks that hung out with us. A fun night of music.

April 7th, DAVE at Aunt Kate's - I had another great afternoon on the porch. Thanks Brian and staff you guys are the best!

It was a good week. I'm looking forward to getting into the studio and laying down some new tunes for Project #6 and working with Dan on the cover design for it. Thanks for letting me live my dream! Keepin' It Real!- David

see you down the road!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
check out my upcoming performances here:
http://davidwattbesley.blogspot.com/p/schedule_31.html

Carpetbaggers Band 

The North Star Band 

March 25th - March 29th, Puerto Rico - My grandson Braylen was on his spring break from school, so we all took a trip to Puerto Rico.  It was an adventure! The Airbnb we stayed at in Rincon was beautiful. It was in a mountain area, I wouldn't suggest trying to get there at night. The beaches were beautiful, water was a pretty bluegreen with big waves. We went to the rain forest one day and climbed to the top of the observation tower, we saw a beautiful water fall there too. On the last night we stayed in San Juan. All in all we had a good time, some good and some not so good experiences with the restaurants there (go where the locals go) but the people were nice and you can't beat the weather.

Rincon, PR

March 31st, DAVE at Aunt Kate's - Happy Easter! What a wonderful day, it was good to be back on the porch by the water playing my guitar. Thanks Brian and staff for taking care of me on the gig. Thanks Theresa and Brianna for a tasty Easter dinner.

It's been a whirlwind week, our adventure in Puerto Rico was fun, it is good to be home though. I'm looking forward to getting back in the studio with Jim and Johnny. It's a busy week playing too. Thanks for letting me live my dream!!! Keepin' It Real!!! DAVE

see you down the road!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
check out my upcoming performances here:
http://davidwattbesley.blogspot.com/p/schedule_31.html

Carpetbaggers Band 

The North Star Band 

March 18th, Retrophonics Studios - Jim and Nancy had a funeral service to attend so Johnny and I went to work. We laid down a track on "Cowboy Dream", replaced a guitar track and re-sang "The Way It Is" and worked some new ideas up on "Making Rainbows". We are 4 songs into my new effort Project #6.

March 19th, Songwriters Night at Oasis Tiki Bar - What a time we had! Mark and John kicked butt. Bob brought out a couple new tunes I haven't heard. We had Sue, Rick, Steve, Bill, Bob and Gary all players in town and at our show. Doesn't get better than that!

Mark, John, Bob & Dave

March 20th, Carpetbaggers DAVE, Sue, Tony and Frankie at Hurricane Grill and Wings - Another great time! Another great crowd! Thanks you guys for supporting Carpetbaggers music. Thanks Abe, Albert and staff you guys are the best!

March 21st, Bagan and Company - Dan and I did our walk and then continued to move the Project #6 idea along (my new solo project).

March 21st, OFF - Theresa and I stopped by to visit with brother Ed and the rest of the One Good Ring guys at Colonial Oaks before their show. I played "Smile for The Camera" a song Jay, Walt and I wrote at Bill Brown's Celebration Of Life gathering. It was good to see Janis and family I wish it wasn't on such a sad occasion. 

March 23rd, Carpetbaggers DAVE and Sue at Oasis Tiki Bar - We had a nice night, a little rain at the beginning but turned out okay. See you back here April 4th. Thanks to all the good folks at Oasis for having us play!

March 24th, Carpetbaggers DAVE, Sue and Tony at St. Augustine Fish House and Oyster Co - We were cancelled due to wind, the patio furniture was flying! See you back here April 11th.

I'm going to miss my time at Retrophonics Studios with Jim and Johnny also missing Thursday with at Bagan and Company with Dan. Thanks for letting me live my dream!!! Keepin' It Real! -David

see you down the road!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
check out my upcoming performances here:
http://davidwattbesley.blogspot.com/p/schedule_31.html

Carpetbaggers Band 

The North Star Band 

 

March 11th, Retrophonics Studios - Jim, Johnny and I worked on a vocal idea and arrangement for "Making Rainbows" and we cut a track on "The Way It Is" with "Another Day". We are 3 songs into Project #6.

March 13th, Carpetbaggers DAVE, Sue, Tony and Frankie  at Hurricane Grill and Wings - Great evening! I really had a good time playing with my band mates. Thanks for supporting Carpetbaggers music!

March 14th, Bagan and Company- I couldn't do my regular Thursday stuff today. There were things that I had to be home for.

March 14th, Carpetbaggers DAVE, Sue and Tony at  St. Augustine Fish House & Oyster Co - We had fun! We missed Frankie he will be back with us on Wednesday.

March 15th, Carpetbaggers DAVE and Sue at Tides Oyster Co -  We had a great night! It's always fun playing with my band mate Sue. Thanks to all that support our music.

March 16th, OFF - I started on a new tune this morning un-named right now. 

March 17th, DAVE at Aunt Kate's - It was a great afternoon out on the porch by the water. Thanks Brian and staff!

I'm looking forward to getting into Retrophonics this week and then getting together with Dan Bagan to do the morning walk and start work on the cover art for my new effort Project #6. Thanks for letting me live my dream!!! Keepin' It Real!-DAVE

see you down the road!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
check out my upcoming performances here:
http://davidwattbesley.blogspot.com/p/schedule_31.html

Carpetbaggers Band 

The North Star Band 

March 4th, Retrophonics Studios - Jim and I put the finishing touches on a "Rocket", "I'm So Gone", "Get Along Little Pony" and 'Twilight". Then we added a new tune "Chasing Rainbows" to my new effort Project #6. 

March 5th, OFF - I had a Zoom meeting with The North Star Band, we talked about our new recording, should be hearing something soon.

March 6th, Carpetbaggers DAVE, Sue, Tony and Frankie - Hurricane Grill and Wings - Great night! What a crowd! Laurence Stevenson sat in with us on Mandolin, you did great job Laurence. My new solo effort was released tonight Poor-dum, it's #5. 1st Believe These Eyes, 2nd Hopeless Romantic, 3rd Mr. Song to Evil People, 4th Live and a Little Touched was video and music, 5th Poor-Dum On March 4th I started Project #6 at Retrophonics Studios, my next solo effort.

March 7th, Bagan and Company - Dan and I did a Thursday morning walk then went to work on some new ideas for Project #6 my next solo release. We put together a thumb drive for Poor-Dum.

March 7th, Carpetbaggers DAVE and Sue at Oasis Tiki Bar - It was a nice evening at the Oasis Tiki Bar with Jean. We had a good crowd and also had Laurence Stevenson sitting in again. See you guys at this venue with Sue and I on March 23rd.

Laurence, Sue & Dave

March 8th, 9th and 10th, DAVE at The Big Deck - It was a great weekend as usual! This is a great venue Darlene, Bryan and  staff are the best!

Looking forward to being in the studio and moving along with my new effort Project #6. Thanks for letting me live my dream!!! Keepin' It Real!-DAVE

see you down the road!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
check out my upcoming performances here:
http://davidwattbesley.blogspot.com/p/schedule_31.html

Carpetbaggers Band 

The North Star Band 

It's been a while....

February 26th, Retrophonics Studios - Jim and I finished the mix on "Rocket" and reviewed the 9 other songs for Poor-Dum I think we are done!. Looking forward to starting on Project #6.  Jim DeVito and Johnny Medico will be producing. I'm excited. Can't wait for everyone to hear Poor-Dum!!!

February 27th, OFF - Working on "A Wish" getting ready for Project # 6, I can't wait to get started!

February 28th, Carpetbaggers DAVE, Sue, Tony and Frankie at Hurricane Grill and Wings - What a night! We missed Sue, she wasn't feeling well but from the parking lot came Lawrence Stevenson who sat-in with us for the night on mandolin. Thanks to all the great folks at Hurricane Grill and Wings especially Abe and Albert!

February 29th, Bagan & Company - Dan and I did only half of the Thursday walk we usually do and talked about my new effort Project #6.

February 29th, Carpetbaggers DAVE, Tony and Frankie at St. Augustine Fish House & Oyster Co - Bad weather rolled in  so we cancelled.

March 1st, DAVE at Aunt Kate's - It was a windy cloudy day but a few folks were there to hear my songs. Thanks to Dale for singing "Father and Son" with me.

March 2nd, Carpetbaggers DAVE, Sue, Tony and Frankie at San Sebastian Winery - We decided to take a chance outside, I'm glad we did. The place was packed! Not a nicer places to play in St. Augustine. Thanks Kyle and staff! See you next month April 6th

March 3rd, DAVE at Aunt Kate's - I set up but mother nature was not my friend today. I had to cancel because it rained.

I'm looking forward to releasing Poor-Dum  and starting my new effort Project #6. Thanks for letting me live my dream!!! Keepin' It Real!!!  DAVE

see you down the road!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
check out my upcoming performances here:
http://davidwattbesley.blogspot.com/p/schedule_31.html

Carpetbaggers Band 

The North Star Band 

February 19th, Retrophonics Studios - Jim and I worked on "Rocket".  Jim, Jesse Cruce and I added some harmonies. Next week we hope to finish the mix and then Jim DeVito will start finalizing everything. Can't wait to move on to "Project No. 6" !!!

February 20th, Songwriter's Night at the Oasis Tiki Bar - It was a great night! This change of venue has worked out real good. A lot of it has to do with Jean and staff at the Oasis. Dave Rudolf and Amy Hendrickson were fabulous. As usual Bob kicked butt! Thanks for supporting original music in St. Augustine. See you next month on March 19th with John Winters and Mark Richey. We forgot to take the group hug at the end of the night so this photo will have to do.

February 21st, Carpetbaggers DAVE, Sue, Tony and Frankie at Hurricane Grill and Wings - It was another cold night so we were under the tent. We had a nice crowd though. Thanks Abe, Albert and staff! See you next week.

February 22nd, Bagan and Company - Dan and I released "Rocket" on FaceBook.

February 22nd,  Carpetbaggers DAVE and Sue at The Press - It was a great night really enjoy hangin' out and playing some music with Sue. Thanks to all that showed up. Thanks Scott and staff. The food was excellent Jessica Besley!

February 23rd, 24th and 25th, Jupiter with Joel and Michele -Theresa and I had a great time, we meet some great folks, had some great food, checked out some beautiful boats, told some stories, drank some shots, climbed some stairs, walked the beach, got some seashells, heard some music - now we are home. It was also good to hang out with my band mate and friend Al Johnson.

Dave, Dave and Joel

Al Johnson and Dave

I'm hoping to finishing Poor-Dum at Retrophonics Studios this week. I'm going to release another new song on Facebook with the help of Dan at Bagan and Company. Thanks for letting me live my dream!!! Keepin' it Real!!  -David

see you down the road!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
check out my upcoming performances here:
http://davidwattbesley.blogspot.com/p/schedule_31.html

Carpetbaggers Band 

The North Star Band 

February 12th, Retrophonics Studios - Jim and I worked on a mix for "Harpoon Sadie" and "Rocket".  Four more tunes to go then Poor-Dum will be finished. Yeah!

February 13th - Theresa and I went with Sue and Wayne to see Marc Douglas Berardo and Louise Mosrie Coombe at Cafe 11 it was a good show. It 's always good to see my old songwriting friend. Clay Blasser did a wonderful job with the sound.

February 14th, Carpetbaggers DAVE, Sue, Tony and Frankie at Hurricane Grill and Wings - It was still a little chilly so we set up under the tent. We had a nice crowd it was a good time.

February 15th, Bagan and Company - Dan and I did a 2.2 mile walk and then worked on releasing  "I'm So Gone" on Facebook from my new solo project called Poor-dum.

February 16th, Carpetbaggers Dave and Tony at The Tides Oyster Co and Grill - It was a fun time with Tony filling in for Sue. Good to see The Bagan's in the audience.

February 18th - I finished a new tune called "A Cowboy Dream" a song to add to my new solo effort Project No. 6 

February 18th, DAVE at Aunt Kate's - It rained all day... I mean all day...no gig today. See you March 1st.

Looking forward to doing some mixing on my Poor-Dum project with Jim DeVito at Retrophonics Studios. Later in the week I'm getting together with Dan to release of "Harpoon Sadie" on Facebook. We've got a Songwriters night, one Carpetbaggers show and Sue and I are going to play a new venue, The Press. Thanks for letting me live my dream!!!  Keepin' It Real! -David

see you down the road!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
check out my upcoming performances here:
http://davidwattbesley.blogspot.com/p/schedule_31.html

Carpetbaggers Band 

The North Star Band 

February 5th, I started working on a new tune, "Cowboy" is the working title. I have written 6 new tunes for my next solo effort  I'm calling it "Project No. 6".

February 5th, Retrophonics Studios - Jim, Johnny and I worked mixing "Harpoon Sadie", we got a great version going, then realized we had a guitar track Mickey Adams had done, so we will take a look at that next week. I discussed with Johnny and Jim my thoughts about my next solo project "Project No. 6" and plans for the next Carpetbagger's project.

February 7th, Carpetbaggers DAVE, Sue,Tony and Frankie at Hurricane Grill and Wings - It was a little cold but had a great audience. Thanks for supporting Carpetbaggers' music. We will see you next week.

February 8th, Bagan and Company - Dan and I released "Get Along Little Pony", a song I co-wrote with Mike Caudill in the early 70's.

February 9th, 10th and 11th, DAVE at The Big Deck - It was great to be back in Cedar Key! It was an awesome weekend,  the audiences were very fun for all three days. We were back in our room at Bryan and Darlene's. We've been at Cedar Cove since the hurricane. The market just reopened too, I had the first sub from the deli, Italian, at the Cedar Key Market. Some things are coming back, some not so much. God bless Cedar Key.

I am looking forward to the studio, Jim and I will finish the mix on "Harpoon Sadie" and move to "40 Years" a song written by Chris Berardo. I also look forward to getting together with Dan at Bagan and Company to release "I'm So Gone", a song I co-wrote with Chris Mcvey. Thanks for letting me live my dream!!! Keepin' It Real! -David

see you down the road!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
check out my upcoming performances here:
http://davidwattbesley.blogspot.com/p/schedule_31.html

Carpetbaggers Band 

The North Star Band 

January 22nd, Retrophonics Studios - Jim, Johnny and I worked on mixes for "Life Goes On", " Get Along Little Pony" and "I'm So Gone".

January 24th, Carpetbaggers DAVE, Sue, Tony  and Frankie at Hurricane Grill and Wings - The power went off about 4pm just as I finished setting up. It came back on and off again about 4:20 and at 4:30 or so we were good to go. A beautiful day in the neighborhood. We had a great evening somewhere else on A1A.

January 25th, Bagan and Company - Dan and I working on a release for Facebook called "I Feel The Love" It's from my new solo project Poor-Dum. Later Theresa and I had dinner at Barbara Jean's on the Water with Gary and Debbie Carroll. They are friends of ours on vacation here from Virginia.  It was nice to catch up with my ole band mate. I hope we see more of them in the future. 

January 26th, Carpetbaggers DAVE, Sue, Tony and Frankie at The St. Augustine Fish House and Oyster Co - It was a great night! Great crowd! Good to see John Winters!

January 27th - I was off today. I stopped by and saw John Winters and Mark Richey at Marina Munch in the afternoon, they sounded great. John and Mark will be on stage with Bob and I for March's Songwriter's Night.

Just heard one of my life long friends Paul D'Angelo passed away. One more of the Fairview Gang heads to heaven with Pat and Jayne. R.I.P. my friend.  

January 31st - I finally finished up an new tune I've been working on called  "Front and Center" with some help on a few lines from Theresa.  

January 31st, Carpetbaggers DAVE, Sue, Tony and Frankie at Hurricane Grill and Wings - It turned out to be a great night, never sure with the current weather situation. We were under the tent, folks were showing up 2 hours before the gig to get seats. I know I was there setting up.

February 1st, Carpetbaggers DAVE and Sue at The World Famous Oasis Tiki Bar - What a great night! At one point in the night Sue turned to me and said "the place is full".  I hadn't even noticed I was just enjoying playing. When I looked up it was full, people braving the cold weather. Thanks Jean and all the great folks at Oasis. Also all our friends old and new that support Carpetbaggers music. Also JC Hatfield, Noelle and Jim's friend Jimmy were in the audience.

February 2nd, DAVE at Aunt Kate's - I have always said if folks are sitting outside to eat I will play. It turned out to be a nice afternoon. As the sun started to set it began to cool off pretty quick but there were still a porch full of folks there when I left. Thanks Brian, Dave and staff you guys are the best!

February 3rd, Carpetbagger DAVE, Sue,Tony and Frankie at San Sebastian Winery - There was a breeze and it was chilly but Kyle put a heater on the stage and everyone seemed comfortable. I think it was different for the folks that came out to see us. Thanks to Kyle and all the great folks at the San Sebastian Winery, you guys are the best. If you haven't been here, come up on the roof to look around the town and to check out our sound.

February 4th, DAVE at Aunt Kate's - The weather didn't cooperate so I had to cancel. As it turned out, the sun came out  later in the day...darn. Well, sometimes you win sometimes you loose. I'll be back in two weeks.

Looking forward to Retrophonics Studios and Jim DeVito to move along with the mixes on my new Poor-Dum project. Also working with Dan Bagan to release my next song on Facebook "Get Along Little Pony" a song I co-wrote with Mike Caudill in the 70's. Thanks for letting me live my dream!!!  Keepin' It Real! -David

see you down the road!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
check out my upcoming performances here:
http://davidwattbesley.blogspot.com/p/schedule_31.html

Carpetbaggers Band 

The North Star Band 

January 8th, Retrophonics Studios - Jim, Johnny and I worked on "Rocket" and Tony's acoustic solo at the end of "I Feel The Love" soon to be released as a single song on Facebook for you guys to check out. I'm excited! Jim, Johnny and I also talked about a new solo project I will start on along with The Carpetbaggers next effort.

January 10th - Carpetbaggers DAVE, Sue, Tony and Frankie at Hurricane Grill and Wings - It was a nice night, the temperature dropped pretty quick when the sun went down. We would like to thank the brave folks that weathered the weather with us.

January 12th, 13th and 14th, DAVE at The Big Deck - I always love driving across the state to play this venue. The Big Deck, the owners, the staff, the tourists and all the people that live there are the best! Thank you Cedar Key!

January 15th, Retrophonics Studios - Jim, Johnny and I worked up a new mix on "I Feel The Love" and we worked on a mix and re-sang "Life Goes On".

January 16th - Songwriter's Night at The World Famous Oasis Tiki Bar - What a great night! The weather was awful all day but cleared up around 4pm. We had a great audience, Doug and Michael kicked butt! Thanks Jean and all the folks at the Oasis for providing the space for us to make music. And thanks to all the folks that support the music we play. 

Michael, Doug, Bob & Dave

January 17th, Carpetbaggers DAVE, Sue and Frankie at Hurricane Grill and Wings - It was a nice chilly evening. We featured our harmonies tonight something that gets a little lost sometimes. Enjoyed singing with Sue and Frankie. We missed you Tony.

January 19th - Carpetbaggers DAVE and Sue at Tides and Oyster - It was good to be back at Tides Oyster Co and Grill. We had a nice crowd. This is one of our favorite places to play as a duo.

I started on a new tune, the working title is "Front & Center". I'm looking forward to the studio this week, Jim and I will continue mixing Poor-Dum my current solo project. I just have a couple of shows this week with the band, I always look forward to that. Also looking forward to getting together with Dan and working on the release of "I Feel The Love" from my Poor-Dum project. Thanks for letting me live my dream! Keepin' It Real! -David

see you down the road!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
check out my upcoming performances here:
http://davidwattbesley.blogspot.com/p/schedule_31.html

Carpetbaggers Band 

The North Star Band 

January 1st - Retrophonics Studios - Jim and I worked on a mix for "I Feel The Love". I hope to get with Dan Bagan this week and start on a release for my facebook page this week. I can't wait for everyone to hear my new music. I'm excited.

January 3rd, Carpetbaggers DAVE, Sue, Tony and Frankie at Hurricane Grill and Wings - It was a great evening, the place was packed! The rain held off until the very to the end.

January 4th, Carpetbaggers DAVE and Sue at The World Famous Oasis Tiki Bar - Sue and I had a great night! We would like to thank Jean and all the great folks at the Tiki Bar for having Sue and I at their venue. 

January 5th, DAVE at Aunt Kate's - It turned out to be a beautiful day on the porch by the water! See you again on Sunday if this weather holds out.

January 6th, Carpetbaggers DAVE, Sue, Tony and Frankie at  The San Sebastian Winery - It turned out to be a beautiful night, it was a little windy near the end. We had a great crowd, it was a great time. Thanks everyone who came down to support The Carpetbaggers!

January 7th, DAVE at Aunt Kate's - It was windy and cold but I played it out, surprisingly there was a pretty good size audience. It turned out to be a nice chilly show on the porch by the water. Thanks Brian and staff you guys are the best!

I had a nice week! Finished up a new tune "Ride Like The Wind", for sure this will have Jim DeVito pull out his western guitar. Carpetbaggers will not longer be performing at Borrillo's, the venue made scheduling errors and defaulted on the dates they committed to us for 2024. We would like to thank all our fans for enduring the time we spent there over the last several months, we sure miss Gerry and Delia. Thanks for letting me live my dream!!! Keepin' It Real!!-David

see you down the road!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
check out my upcoming performances here:
http://davidwattbesley.blogspot.com/p/schedule_31.html

Carpetbaggers Band 

The North Star Band 

December 11th, Retrophonics Studios - Jim, Johnny and I worked on "Life Goes On". Next Tuesday we hope to tackle "Rocket" and then it's going under the headphones for Jim and finishing it up. I'm excited.

December 13th, Carpetbaggers DAVE, Tony and Frankie at Hurricane Grill and Wings -  We had a great rainy, windy, chilly night at Hurricane's. We missed Sue but somehow made it through. Tony and Frankie kicked butt!

December 14th, 15th, 16th, 17th and 18th,  Ellijay, GA - Theresa, Brianna, Braylen & I spent the weekend in the mountains of Georgia with Wayne and Sue.  As always a lot of fun, R and R and some exercise climbing those mountains. We did a drive-in movie, a first for Brianna and Braylen. Braylen also ice skated for the first time.  A great time was had by all. 

December 19th, Songwriters Night at The World Famous Oasis Tiki Bar - It was really cold for Florida. I didn't really know what to expect as far as an audience. It turned out to be a great night. Great job by Douglas and Michael. See you back here on January 16th with a different line up and the time will change to 6pm to 8pm. Thanks Oasis and staff for having us!

Douglas, Dave, Michael and Bob

December 20th, Carpetbaggers DAVE, Sue, Tony and Frankie at Hurricane Grill and Wings - It was good to get back playing with the band. It was a nice night although we had to set up under the tent.

December 21st, Bagan and Company - Dan and I ordered inserts for Poor-Dum and worked on our first idea for the release of "I Feel The Love". 

December 21st, Carpetbaggers DAVE and Sue at The World Famous Oasis Tiki Bar - We had a great night! Good to see a lot of familiar faces in a new setting. Thanks for your support! We'll be beck January 4th!

December 22nd, DAVE at Aunt Kate's was cancelled - I talked with Brian and we decided the weather was not my  friend today. We were wrong  because I think it turned out to be an okay evening. Sorry but it's hard to second guess mother natures. See you December 29th weather permitting. 

December 25th, Merry Christmas! - I finished another tune "Ride Like The Wind". I have four more to lay down at Retrophonics Studios and one more I co-wrote with Tony Scozzaro for The Carpetbagger's.

December 27th, Carpetbaggers DAVE, Sue, Tony and Frankie -Hurricane Grill and Wings - It looked like rain so we set up under the roof. It was a great night! It was good to hang out and make music with my band mates. See you same place next year!

December 28th, Bagan and Company - Dan and I worked on "Live and A Little Touched" fixed the times. We also are coming up with some ideas for my soon to be released "I Feel The Love" a song from my new Poor-Dum project.

December 29th, DAVE at Aunt Kate's - I went down there and stood where I would be playing and there was a steady cold wind blowing. Cancelled! Later Theresa and I went to Jim and Sheryl's it was a lot of fun.

December 31st, DAVE at Aunt Kate's -  Sunny day, I had a nice afternoon out on the porch by the water! Happy New Year everyone! See you next year!

This has been a great year with all kinds of fun. I'm looking forward to 2024 with new original music from me and the band. I can't wait to get into the studio New Years Day to work on Poor-Dum, the new solo project I've been working on. Thanks for letting me live my dream!!!   Keepin' It Real! -David

see you down the road!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
check out my upcoming performances here:
http://davidwattbesley.blogspot.com/p/schedule_31.html

Carpetbaggers Band 

The North Star Band