Former Dixie Dregs bassist shares stories about the band’s formation, current projects
Exclusive video interview with FBPO’s Jon Liebman
August 22, 2022
Andy West’s musical legacy will forever be connected to his work with Steve Morse and The Dixie Dregs. The pioneering instrumental rock fusion group — of which Andy was the founding member bassist — made waves in the late ‘70s and early ‘80s with an eclectic sound that blended elements of southern rock, prog rock, classical, jazz, and bluegrass into a completely original style. Outside of the Dregs, West is also known for his collaborations with Mike Keneally, Henry Kaiser, Paul Barrere, Joaquin Liévano and Vinnie Moore, in groups like The Mistakes and Zazen. In addition to his musical output, Andy’s led a successful parallel career in the software industry.
Watch our interview with Andy!
See Jon’s blog, with key takeaways from this interview here.
Wonderful bass player. Comes across as a really good human being. He and Steve Morse carved a unique musical history of their own with the Dregs. They managed to merge the Mahavishnu Orchestra style with Contemporary Rock and Country music in a way that was all of their own. He is definitely as much responsible for what people knew and loved about the Dregs as Morse was.
Totally true, Andy! The Dregs were great. Thanks for weighing in!
There are a handful of bands that absolutely blew me away when I heard them for the first time. The Dregs are one of those bands and Andy was incredible in that band! All of the musicians are world-class players and Steve Morse is an insane composer!!!
Agreed, all the way around. Thanks, Keith!