Interview: Hazel Miller's Prestigious Career - Singing for Presidents, Gracing the Red Rocks Stage, and Finding Connection Through Music

When we talk about Colorado music, several names come up that truly define our state’s music scene. Hazel Miller is one of those names, making a true mark on our community with her incredibly pretigious career. I’m sure you’ve heard her on KUVO, eTown, or a variety of other places. Hazel is the picture of success as a musician and she has achieved things beyond many a band’s wildest dreams, but remains a humble, charismatic, and sweet individual through and through. From singing for Presidents to headlining Red Rocks with Big Head Todd and the Monsters to crooning to audiences at intimate (but always packed) shows around Colorado, Hazel is a true champion of the community and always lifts people up with her voice. Give her a follow on YouTube and Facebook - or visit her website to learn more - then, please do yourself the favor of seeing her live when you can.

I first had the pleasure of seeing Hazel Miller play live when I attended the Five Points Jazz Festival in 2018. I went alone, in the rain, especially to see her - and boy, I’m glad I did. She has changed my whole outlook on music and how it can be used to unite us all. Since then, I have been so lucky to work with her and get to know her a little better - and she is definitely one of my favorite people. I’m so thankful to have had the chance to interview her so that you can get to know her a little better too. So, without further ado, please enjoy this interview with the one and only Hazel Miller.

How long have you been singing as a musician? How did you first get into singing?

I’ve been singing for more than 5 decades. I started out with a local band in Louisville, KY.

When and where was your first show as a professional musician?

I sang with a band in a “Battle of he Bands” contest. I believe it was 1969. Our band was made up of neighborhood people.

I really want to know more about your journey as a musician. How did you get through the hard times throughout your career? How do you celebrate the good times?

Prayer and hard work, persistance & blind faith keep me going. The hard times always break in the end. The good times always last longer. Good times mean more gigs; more benefits for my sons and me.

What inspires you to make the music that you do?

I love all genres of music. I make music to express my feelings & my point of view. I sing because “I’m free!”

What have you accomplished as a musician in 2020 that you’re most proud of?

I have survived until the end of the 2020. I have managed to keep my band together. Music is my life and holding the band together means we have beaten the odds.

What are the top three performance highlights of your prestigious music career?

My first time opening for a national act in my home town. singing at Red Rocks with Big Head Todd & the Monsters for the first time, and Singing as a regular member on the eTown Radio Show.

I have to ask - how did you react when you found out you’d be playing for President Bill Clinton at Red Rocks? Did you enjoy the experience?

We actually played for Mr. Clinton at Red Rocks for his 2nd presidential campaign term. I have sung for 3 presidents - Carter, Clinton & Ford.

What is your favorite part of live performance?

I love the audience interaction. I love feeling the emotion and love going back & forth from the stage to the audience & back to the stage. I love the fire that inspires the improvisation on stage.

What is something about live shows that you never thought you’d miss until they went away due to Covid-19?

I miss the camaraderie of the band. I really miss my music family…my bandmates.

Did living in Kentucky initially shape your musical style and tastes? How does living in Colorado influence your music?

My music choices are really similar. I found out that my taste in music is primarily the same here it was in Kentucky. I like feel-good, uptempo music with great ballads mixed in.

What’s your favorite thing about the Colorado music scene?

Colorado has the most diverse music scene in the country. Many cities/states are known for one genre. Denver boasts many genres that exist equally and attract many listeners every night.

If there’s one thing you want people to take away from your music, what is it?

When I look out into the audience and see people dancing, smiling, talking and feeling lifted, happy and more relaxed, I feel happy. I know our music helped make that possible.

Photo by Douglas Nelson Photography

Who are your musical role models? Do you look up to any local or non-local musicians? Why?

I have always loved Ella Fitzgerald, Doris Day, Aretha Franklin, Sam Cooke, Nat King Cole, Ray Charles, (any song) Motown…I love music, vocal & instrumental. Lately, I find myself loving Todd Park Mohr, Chris Daniels, Moses Jones, and many more!

What is something you have learned or taken away from 2020 that you’ll apply to the rest of your life?

I am relearning how to hustle to survive and stay vital. I won’t forget again.

If you could give a piece of advice to musicians just starting out, what would it be?

Be true to your dream…get a good lawyer…learn how to negotiate!

What’s your favorite show that you’ve ever played? Why was it so special to you?

My first time singing onstage at Red Rocks! It was a great moment of pride, joy, and stage fright!

If you could play your dream show, what would it look like?

My dream show is my band playing Red Rocks Amphitheater as the headliner. We would have a sold out arena. The band would turn our excitement into beautiful music.

The first time I ever had the pleasure of seeing you perform live was when The Hazel Miller Band performed at Five Points Jazz Festival in 2018. I was a fan from the very first song and you have been a huge part of why I love jazz and blues so much. Why is that event so important to you?

I have been trying for years to stay connected to Five Points Jazz Fest. Sometimes I was successful…sometimes not. The Five Points Jazz Fest is the oldest and very prestigious community festival. Performing in the festival gave my family and friends a chance to see us perform. My grand kids were all smiles. They were so proud of the band.

What’s your favorite song to sing? Original or cover.

I don’t have one favorite song. I have songs that speak to me at particular times. It’s impossible to have one song that covers every occasions.

Who are some of your favorite local Colorado musicians and bands?

Chris Daniels & the Kings…Kerry Pastine and the Crime Scene…Hot Lunch Band…Sheryl Renee…All the Jazz players!

Where can fans catch you performing in the coming months?

Unfortunately, I have no performances scheduled. Hoping that will change soon.

What’s a great local Colorado business for people to support this holiday season?

Support all your favorite restaurants by ordering ’take out” or “curb pickup”. “Like” and follow the Facebook and websites of your favorite bands. This gives us hope that you’ll be there when we return.

How did you become a part of Big Head Todd and the Monsters? How long have you been a member of the band?

I was asked to sing back-up on It’s Alright for their CD release party in the late 90s. Late in the summer of 1996, Todd asked me if I’d like to tour for a few weeks. It all worked out and I stayed with them for many years.

What do you love most about being a part of Big Head Todd and the Monsters?

I love that the BHTM guys are all professionals. They are supportive and kind people. We always have fun onstage and off.

Tell me about your experience playing at Red Rocks.

Playing Red Rocks makes me feel that I have indeed made the big time. It’s so surreal to be backstage! I’ve played there for 2 decades with BHTM. I’ve played there 3 times with my band. It’s so exciting when you walk out and people chant your name!

What’s your favorite city that you toured to and why?

I love San Francisco! It’s so romantic and the audiences are very excited to see and hear your music.

What upcoming plans do you have for 2021 as a musician?

I’m planning to get back out there singing ASAP! Nothing is more important to me. I miss my friends and fans. My fans are my friends.

How can people support your music during the current shut down?

Please go to my YouTube or website to listen to my music. Go to CD Baby, Amazon, or Apple Music and buy a song or 2.