Local musician entertains
Danny Horton, a gifted singer-songwriter from the heart of Plumas, strikes a pose near the Feather River in the days before an international pandemic and subsequent shelter in place order. Horton turned his talents to the virtual world, giving weekly quarantine concerts to keep up the spirits of the community and beyond. Photo by Lauren WestmorelandDanny Horton is a singer-songwriter residing in the heart of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Known by some by his some-time stage name, Jack Danny, Horton has been playing professionally since 1995.
After touring around the world with various bands, including stops in Germany to play a show on Balcony T.V. Horton returned to Blairsden where he collaborated with group Dusty Miles and the Crying Shame for a time.
Horton then launched his solo career playing his own variation of classic/outlaw country blended with folk rock, with his style referred to by some as ‘the voice of Chris Stapleton with the raw attitude of Johnny Cash.”
Horton’s hits have been heard at community events and intimate wine nights at Graeagle winery The Peak. He’s also been found at fundraisers, on various stages in Reno, Nevada, and in high-energy settings such as opening the City of Portola Block Party after the Lost and Found Gravel Grinder bike race.
With the current pandemic closing down restaurants, wineries, bars, casinos, and all such places where people gather, times can be hard for artists such as Horton. What does a musician do when he can’t share his music with a crowd?
Rather than letting the current state of affairs put a halt to his art, the quarantine has simply allowed Horton to turn his talents to a different outlet- social media.
Through Facebook, Horton has brought joy and a sense of community to those in Plumas County and beyond in the best way he knows how — through song.
“I had a show booked at the Ricochet a few weeks ago when the lockdown became more serious,” Horton said.
“Everyone started closing their doors. My shows have all been getting canceled. I figured I would set up in my living room and do live shows since we are all stuck at home.”
A couple of friends suggested that Horton attach a Venmo account to the shows. “They wanted to tip me and I’m losing money from not playing,” Horton said.
“I know there is a ton of turmoil in town because of the surge of people that have retreated. I figured if I start to play shows every week it will give people something to look forward to, and extra incentive to stay home!”
The quarantine concerts were quickly dubbed the Red Fox Road Sessions, and many enjoy the ability to remotely spend time with family and friends while enjoying the show.
“A person commented on a show and said, ‘Covid-19 what?’ Basically, saying that because I was playing music for everyone, people were forgetting about how crazy the world is right now. I’m hoping my music is a healthy distraction for everyone, that’s what we all need right now,” Horton said.
Horton’s music has once again proved to have national appeal as well, with viewers ‘attending’ the weekly live-streamed concerts from all corners of the country.
“People have been creating watch parties and playing it on their TVs while they make dinner and have drinks. It’s like a virtual community block party,” Horton added.
Anyone can attend and share the concerts by searching for Danny Horton’s Red Fox Road Sessions Quarantine Concert on Facebook.
All are invited to enjoy the next concert, which is scheduled to be held Friday, April 10 from 6-9 p.m., with future shows planned to be held on alternating Friday or Saturday nights.
Tips for the musician are appreciated in the virtual ‘tip jar’ on Venmo at Danny-Horton-4 or via Facebook messenger. For more information about Danny Horton, visit jackdannymusician.com.
