Dan Zanes Rocks Brooklyn

Bring the Family!

In Brooklyn, Dan Zanes is sort of a hometown hero. His CDs, in their eco-friendly cardboard packaging, are prominently displayed at the toy trap/haircut place I take my daughter to, and Zanes often stands on street corners around election time, bringing attention to a candidate he believes in. Instantly recognizable with his gravity-defying hair, Zanes is chatty, approachable, and friendly despite being a Grammy Award-winner, or having Ben Stiller grunt his name unapprovingly in a movie (Greenberg from 2009).

Zanes's concerts usually sell out on the strength of likability, but also because of the rootsy, mandolin-driven music that mixes originals and covers, the latter drawing from the great American songbook, ethnic folk songs, and early American roots music. Performing with him is a closely knit touring and recording band (the Friends of Dan Zanes & Friends), and often some surprise guests of note.

Zanes has popularized the idea of a family band, in which friends and family make music together. At his shows, this idea extends to the audience, making the live experience a truly interactive affair - and lending credence to Zanes's alleged love of "singing with everybody."

For even more family activities and events in Brooklyn, see the November Calendar Highlights or visit our Online Calendar of Events